Lakeland 100

 People are often surprised that I have never done this race but we are often on the continent by this stage of the summer. Retiring changed the urgency to leave the UK on a certain date in July and then I somehow volunteered to help at a CP. When Rupert needed a hip operation suddenly I was promoted to being in charge of Kentmere CP and the reward was a free entry to 2020. Covid postponed that race to 2021.

Marc at the prize-giving later

The weather had been glorious and the ground would be dry. It was hard sitting and trying not to do too much in the days leading up to the race. The previous Saturday I had run the Old Crown Round route pretty hard and so this week it was walks and cycle rides before even less on Wednesday, Thurs and Friday. We were up in the Lakes with the van parked on the school field at Coniston by mid morning.  The field was already half full and a full party atmosphere of runners and the massive team of volunteers was in full swing. Registration was quick and then after a bit of faffing with my race gear and drop bag I was ready. I wandered round the field finding friends but also tried to just rest lying in the shade. The forecast had been for slightly cooler weather than the previous days but it was still roasting hot and very sweaty. One error was falling asleep which dried out my contact lens enough that I needed to remove it before CP1. I went to the briefing more for the atmosphere than the info and sat with Jo B and Jess. Marc is a good showman and the hall was buzzing. Not long before the start I bumped into Albert and Tony, friends from home. I was determined to start cautiously due to the heat and distance and many had the same idea. 

I don't often get to chat to Kevin H in a race but he was drenched in sweat even at our slower pace and did not plan to start racing until Wasdale. I also got to meet Anna Troup and so was able to congratulate her on her Spine run in person. She too was having a steady start. We were cheered loudly through the village and up onto the Miner's Bridge.

There was a little bunching on this first path but by Walna Scar Road car park where the track was lined with more supporters we were pretty well spread out. 

It's a fair pull up out of the village at almost 660m of climb before the big drop down to Seathwaite. The descent on tarmac let me race away a bit and I arrived about 20 mins ahead of my plan. I barely stopped here but did top up my water - it was hot enough that I had already drunk half of it. Heading over to Boot I settled into a steady pace. Albert had stopped for a wee and I never saw him again. Matt Neale came past but I was struggling to stick with him especially on the descents. And then I made a stupid error. Coming off the fell I spotted another female ahead..... I bent my head to drink and then chased her. Sadly she didn't know the way and I had missed the turning on to the river-side path. Being focused on chasing meant I raced along the lane for some way before getting worried. There were no runners ahead or behind. I didn't remember a road section here. Oh bugger. Phone out and I saw the mistake. 

My error

We didn't dare risk disqualification and so despite being almost at the CP we turned round and ran back onto the route. Those I had been with were long gone and I ran a bit too hard to try to make up for my error. It meant I arrived at CP2 a bit trashed; not good after only 14 miles and I should have known better. Here I met Maria and others. It was hard work but being determined to stay with them dragged me over to Wasdale faster than I had intended and I was now 40 mins up on plan. It was good to chat with Maria and we just coped without torches as we ran down  through Brackenclose and out onto Wasdale road and then the path behind the pub where suddenly it was dark. Sadly the speedy run also meant I couldn't chew and swallow and so struggled to eat much at the CP. The plod up Black Sail Pass was a beautiful procession of head torches strung out over several kilometres. Although the path up was steep it was fairly easy but the descent down to Ennerdale and Black Sail hut was something else. I kept losing the path and in the dark was struggling to run over the varied and rocky terrain; I hate getting old. From the hut it was straight up again to Scarth Gap and then an even rockier drop down to Buttermere. 

The paths look so easy in daylight

I had not realised how slow those two dark descents would make me and took almost 25 minutes longer than I had hoped. It also taxed me mentally. I was very glad to hit the main lakeside paths and run with Martin T and Andy S along the lake and towards the village. Running long is a mind game and I told myself to be happy that I was still 20 mins up on my plan, 25% of the race was done and two of the biggest climbs between CPs were over. Plus the had chocolate milk at the CP!

It doesn't do the moon justice- it was amazing

For the next section the route is straight forward and I knew the way. It is a mixture of small gradually ascending paths with a fair few runnable bits, then some rocky sections between Sail and Barrow before the wonderful but too short grassy drop to tarmac and the village. The CP was busy but not crowded and I took time to stop, eat and recover along with Martin T, Andy M, Andy S, Ben A, Simon B and others. It was now about 2am and I know that for me 2-3.30am is my low spot. I was feeling predictably negative and had to remind myself that it would soon be dawn and things would suddenly feel so much better. Despite his tumble before Buttermere Andy S was running fast on the roads and paths towards Keswick and I knew trying to keep up was foolish. Instead I climbed up to the lower slopes of Skiddaw with Martin Webb. The moon was absolutely amazing and no photos I could take would have done it justice. There was a small trail of torches ahead of us and an even larger one behind. Chatting and company was good ( he lives in Taunton where I did my 6th form schooling) and we were soon at virtual CP1 on the ruin and heading to the Blencathra Centre CP. School of Rock.

A mug of tea and toast fuelled me up and I was off. After the first woods there was no need for the head torch any more and I caught up with Hem and Gurkha soldier. He was good company and again it's small world as I shared stories of my two trips to Nepal and memories of school with Gurkha children in Hong Kong.

 He was a faster runner than me on the old rail line and his pace pulled me along before I pulled away on the climb to the Old Coach Road. He was a chunky guy and not made for up hill- I reckon his thighs are the same size as my waist! On a map this huge track looks as if it contours the hillside around to above Dockray. Fortunately I knew the truth and ran when I could and walked the other bits. I was pulled along by the knowledge that the next CP was manned my Jon and Shirley 'Hardmoors'.  The last two sections had allowed me to make up time and I was back inside 4mph schedule. In the end it was a very brief chat and hug as the midges were swarming so badly it was not a place to hang around. Heading out of Dockray Andy M came past shouting encouragement. It was now after 6.30am and the heat was building again. I couldn't quite stick with him but tried to keep him in sight. The climb around Gowbarrow was tough but then easier running through the woods and fields led us to the lanes. I'm not a tarmac fan but told myself to be grateful for easy terrain that was almost all down hill. It worked and I managed to catch Simon B and Andy S.

More friends waiting

Dalemain was 59 miles and I knew it would be sensible to take time here and check my drop bag carefully. I managed some stew before replenishing my water and Mountain Fuel and snacks to carry. I tried to air my feet before putting on fresh socks as the others seemed damp with sweat. The bottom inside edge of my heals were a bit macerated and sore but I didn't think changing shoes would help. The front of my right shin had been sore for some time- red, hot and slightly swollen. I think is the tendon sheath and has happened before - not much to do but ignore it as I know it won't get better until I stop and rest for a few days. I was surprised to still be with Martin T but he was having foot problems and Simon was having stomach ones. The heat was taking it's toll.  Sitting so long meant I was stiff and getting going was hard work but the nice grassy paths to Pooley Bridge helped. Although I was on my own there were just enough runners behind and ahead to keep me motivated and we climbed onto Askham Common. It was hot now and I was pleased to get onto the track dropping me to Howtown.  It was here that Andy M, Ben A and I became a small group. I stuffed down some crisps, which seemed to be the only solid food I wanted and drank yet more and more. I guess I was getting some energy from the MF in my water.

Fusedale in the daylight but not race day

People say Fusedale is tough but I quite like it, perhaps because it is not a rocky path and it is also a beautiful and less frequented valley. The final pull up onto the Loadpot ridge slowed us down but what a joy the grassy tops were as we headed north towards Burnbanks before dropping towards Haweswater. Here we picked off a few more runners including David who I knew from The Hill on the Cheviot. I had been dreading the path along Haweswater as my memories of it were in dark and heavy rain after a dreadful descent off Kidsty Pike on the Northern Traverse. It was so much better than I expected that I almost enjoyed it. 

We couldn't run fast in the bracken or over the rocks that suddenly appeared but we made decent time and were soon at Mardale Head CP. 

I didn't really want to eat but knew I should. I think a huge conference style flip chart board listing what is available at each CP would help. I was too tired to ask what there was and in the heat they were trying to cover and hide things from the heat. 

Tea, coke and more crisps fuelled me ready for the mega climb out of the valley and I chatted to Paul W from Event Safety as I rested.

 The three of us set off together again and motivated each other up to Gatesgarth. I knew at the other side they would easily drop me on the descent and encouraged them to go. I also needed a wee. I reckon I am slow now if the track is stones or rocks but I did manage to overtake two guys and then caught Andy and Ben in Longsleddale. I was keen to stick with them as it was definitely helping the pace. We chatted a bit but much passed in 'companionable silence'. I felt a bit refreshed and led the way to Kentmere where we bumped into Kevin Perry holding gates open for us.

Now I was back where it all started. The Kentmere CP. This year Montane were in charge and they had plates of fresh fruit and ice cold smoothies. YES! I had been dreaming of a Calypo for miles and this was wonderful. I had two helpings and would have had more but feared what it might do to my system. I was also reluctant to stop and get stiff so set off before the others. It was the last I saw of Andy M who was having real eating issues and a high heart rate. I plodded up Garburn Pass alone and in blistering heat. So much so I actually sat and had a short rest at the top gate where the wall gave some shade. As I neared the road at Troutbeck the first man on L50 came flying past. He must have thought I was moving like a slug, as did the next few who passed me between there and Ambleside. I had not receed this bit and so checked my phone- I couldn't face going off route now. My phone was almost out of charge and I had to search for charger and lead. Supporters cheered me up into the village and pointed the way to Robin Lane. I should have checked this out as there was more uphill than I expected- never good for morale. I was now behind 4mph and seemed to be moving so so slowly in the heat. I probably was short of fuel but was struggling to eat much at all. Ambleside was crazy busy and I just held my hand up to run through the traffic. At least the crowds were cheering and urging us on. At some point I ran past Martin G and family but barely recognised him in my contact lens less tired state. I tried to eat at the CP but it wasn't really happening. A quick chat with Ronnie (medic friend) and some calculations showed we were 90 miles in so only 15 to go. As I couldn't eat there was no point hanging about and I was soon on my way, leaving just ahead of Ben. My attempt at running through the park must have looked pathetic and it was good to be able to walk up onto Loughrigg. Here I passed Carole, Simon and others out supporting. I dared to start telling myself the end was now getting closer and started doing the mental maths of possible finish times. From Skelwith Bridge the route should be so runnable but not at this stage today. It was so ridiculous to be struggling on the nice flat path to Elterwater and then Chapel Stile that we laughed. The campsite cheered us on and it was a relief to get some shade in the tent at the CP. 

Even better they had water melon which went down a treat. It was almost 7pm but still very warm and despite already being pretty brown and weathered I was getting some sunburn on my thighs. I met Sabs shortly after this and she was full of encouragement. I was probably rather grumpy as I felt I was now moving like a tranquilised elephant - must apologise to her. In fact my splits for Ambleside to Chapel Stile were better than 4mph and I clawed some time back. The climb up onto Blea Moss area was dreadful for me and other runners pulled away. More mental maths to try to motivate me. Once over the road I was able to run again and it wasn't far to the virtual CP on the wall/gate.  A MF jelly had helped and I suddenly had some energy to race down the road to Fell Side and the big track leading to Tilberthwaite. Getting there, getting there, keep going. The mental mind games we play. Last CP and I knew I wasn't going to stop for long. I grabbed some melon and a piece of pineapple and  set my mind to Jacob's ladder steps. Claire, 2ndF on L50, met me here and we had our photo taken together. No idea how some people know who I am.

Ben A was also back with me and as Claire pulled ahead we settled into more chat over the last 3 miles. Yet another stop in the steam at the top to soak caps and buffs and then the last little climb until we could see down to the Copper Mines. Ben was faster down the rocky path but then slowed. I caught him as we hit the big track and as so often is the case with the end in sight I got more than second wind. I ran hard down to the village and then amazingly was running at what felt like sprint pace past the crowds cheering at the pubs, along the road side and even in the halted traffic. The little rise near the petrol station didn't slow me and then it was downhill to the school. Yes. A finish in daylight and with so many supporters cheering. I finished with a huge smile.

Bob had come out to meet me and once the official photo was taken and I had my medal it was off to the van. 

The beer went down OK but the food took me ages and I only managed half before giving up and going for a shower. Good to be clean and non sweaty again. Suddenly I was cold and so piled into bed and once I had massaged both hips fell asleep to cheers from the big tent and other finishers. I woke to the same sound the next day. 

There was a third egg too

Some serious refuelling needed now- 3 egg breakfast, crisps, ice cream and more. The morning was spent strolling around the field feeling good, cheering others in and finding friends to talk to. I should have gone down to the lake for a swim but it just seemed too far. Lazy. 

The prize giving was due at midday and as we assembled Marc announced the VIP area. What a lovely idea. Those who had won overall, age categories in both the L50 and L100 and 500s all crowded in and were treated to free drinks. Never say no to free beer. 

Marc put on a great show and the lively marshalls did him proud dancing to the Blues Brothers and more. Runfurther had a good showing. Rory H was 3rd on L100, Martin T was 1st MV60, I was 1stFV60, Richard L was 1st MV50. Simon, Ken and others were 500 winners and Matt Neale got an individual mention for having done 12 100s. 

I was sat with Maria who I know locally and was so pleased to see her get 3rd place and beat me by almost exactly an hour. 

As the vets were called to the podium Martin and I ran hand in hand which seemed such a fitting end to the whole race.

So in the end very pleased with the result. I am not a fan of technical rocky descents (too much of a wuss now with poor eyes, slow reactions, non elastic legs and the what if factor) but the dry weather helped and I prefer heat to rain any day. I ran almost 107 miles with 6300m of climb. 

27 hours and 35 minutes- slightly outside my 4mph schedule but well inside the mix of 3.5-4mph which was more realistic. 35th overall, 7th female, 1st F/MV60, 2nd FV50 to Anna Troup who was 1st F. Not sure what the % was this year but well over 100 dropped out.

Nav4 Pennine 39

 Not sure why 39 as it is less but what a superb weekend. Love these guys and it is never just a race but more a whole weekend of friends, banter, great food, drink  and superb scenery. 

As usual I wandered p the M6 crazy early. It was sunny when I left Preston and I thought I might get a walk from Hartside on the way. 

No such luck; by the time I passed Shap there was thick cloud and the Pennines had disappeared. Hartside when I reached it was a bit grim in the rain and cloud so not enticing for a walk. I had a quick chat with Mick who was resting there (in his car). We had not seen each other since early in the first lockdown when I cycled to his house to deliver his Runfurther mug! The YHA at Alston was wet and midgy so I sheltered  in the car until things improved.  

It didn't take long to put up a few flags and banners, including the two on the finish path that are such a welcome sight and guide us in and up the steps. I had even beaten Joe but YHA Linda invited me inside.  Many hands made light work so once Joe and Sandra arrived with the mini bus we soon had registration set up, gazebo erected and a kitchen full of food and drink. I manned registration leaving Joe free to tour rail way stations to collect arriving runners whilst Sandra started cooking. I also got first pick of beds in our room- happily chose a bed close to window for fresh air and away from others. Didn't spot the big water pipe behind my pillow though! Not the best night's sleep.

With only 50 odd runners registration was easy- except perhaps for allocating people to buses. Too many wanted to go on the early minibus for various reasons and in the end I felt I was bullying some onto the main big bus. Nick kindly walked to the chippy and got our tea and by then the YHA was filling up nicely which made for a sociable evening catching up with friends.

Even though I was nominally on the late speedy people bus I was up super early thanks to bird song, the water pipes and people moving around. The forecast was some heavy perhaps thundery showers so I opted for 3/4s not shorts (and then regretted this). I also opted to start in a short sleeve and a long sleeve which was far too warm for much of the time. A leisurely breakfast and I still had loads of time and so went to catch the big bus with the masses. There was plenty of space and only about 4 runners left for the late bus.

The early bus- Mick, Ian, Ken, Jenny. Photo- Nick Ham

Learning from my last race here I was determined to do my own thing and not get pulled along to fast at the start. Easily said! Phil W went off like a rocket and Ilkley man was in close pursuit for a while. Phil's partner Clare was just behind me and I knew from Bowland challenges that we were a similar speed. The Tees was in good flow and the waterfalls were spectacular even though there was no time to stop and look properly. As we swung away from the river the runners were well spread out and I was pleased that I knew the way. The first few miles along the Pennine Way are easy running and pleasantly grassy. By Falcon Clints I had slowed on the slippery rocks and Clare caught me up. I took a tumble here a few years ago and am now rather cautious. They were over faster than my memory suggested and we were scrambling up the rocks next to the impressive Cauldron Snout. 

Photo Nick Ham

No real CP here this year due to Covid, just a cheery marshall to take our numbers. Then it was a section on the stone track for a few km. Passing Birkdale farm I grimaced at the memories of Hadrian 100 and the state my feet were in after the epic crossing of cross Fell and having been wet for so long. No such issues today. By now we were catching runners from the early bus and without realising I pulled ahead from Clare. The sections both before and after Maize Beck bridge are wonderful and very runnable (no rock) and we made good time. There is a sneaky short cut as you approach High Cup Nick and this put e a little further ahead. 

Photo Nick Ham

The view is one of the best in England but I have seen it many times and so did not loiter. Suddenly I spotted Ilkley man ahead and so my aim was to see if I could catch him by Dufton (without doing anything totally crazy). By now it was raining quite steadily; strange how this can happen almost without you knowing when it is warm. I contemplated my cag but didn't want to stop and felt OK as I was moving at a fair pace. Approaching Dufton I passed Ken and Jenny plus two others. The CP this year was next to the village hall and there was a little crowd. No melon in the sunshine today. 

Photo Nick Ham

I provided plenty of entertainment as I tried to drink my box of custard too fast and ended up with a fair bit of it around my face- ah well, it made Mick laugh. I grabbed a couple of items from my drop bag and got my water refilled before heading off out of the village just before Clare arrived. I passed Nick and others and then caught Ilkley man (Colin) as we made our way up the big walled track. I was grateful that he kept trying to run as it spurred me on. Clare cannot have stopped at all at the CP as when I turned around on the lane she was following me up hill. Oh bugger- keep plodding. On this big climb to Knock Fell I usually run out of water and have to use the stream- no such problems today. I managed to pick off a couple more runners before the summit and then as I turned towards Great Dunn Fell massive stomach cramps kicked in. Too much custard? Luckily my emergency loo stop was just compete as Rory came flying past- the first runner from the late bus. I had no hope of staying with him but decided to try to run when he did and walk when he did (just more slowly). The radars came and went as did Little Dunn Fell. 

Photo Nick Ham

By Cross Fell Rory was out of sight and I couldn't see anybody behind me either. Part was up the hill the cloud got a bit thicker - not a serious issue and I could still see a couple of hundred metres. the two tall cairns appeared and then the trig and stone shelter. On the Hadrian 100 in the dark and awful weather we almost missed this trig and didn't see it until we virtually walked into it. Hoping I could remember where to turn for my little trod I set off for Gregs Hut. I didn't quite get it right but did manage to cut the corner and found a trod of sorts. As I filled up at the pipe the marshall came out to take my number and to let me know there was another runner a few hundred Metres ahead. I think it had stopped raining now.

From 2019 Gregs Hut

The first year I ran this race I was convinced it was all downhill from Gregs Hut to Garrigill. Lesson learnt and I now know very different. The track drops and climbs several times- none are very steep and if you are expecting them not too bad at all. After the disused mines area the track is now much better and easier to run on. 

2019 The track to Garrigill

I didn't run every step but more than I used to perhaps. I wasn't going to race the guy ahead as he must have been on the early bus but it was useful trying to slowly reel him in.  Fortunate for him too that we reached Garrigill together and I shouted him back knowing that the CP was off down a side road. Glancing at my watch told me that I was on track for my usual sort of time and could finish I about 7 hours. A quick yell of Hello to Angela and I was off to find the river side path. I ran this whole section seeing nobody either in front of me or behind. I couldn't remember exactly how many miles it was so just concentrated on going as fast as I could without blowing out. The little turning up right was very overgrown and I hoped not too many runners would miss it. Then nice grassy running led to the final tiny climb and the gravel path into town. The flags were soon in view and so spurred me on to a final effort. Reward was a PB of 5 mins and my first time under 7 hours. 6hrs 55. Happy with that.  I think I have done every P39 now except the very first one which might have been invitation only for Joe's birthday.

Suddenly I was chilly and the midges were out. Time for a shower and fresh clothes before refuelling with lots of soup, bread and cake. The whole evening them became a long session of eating and drinking as we chatted to friends and cheered in later runners. A big curry, apple crumble, beer, wine... and late to bed. So pleased to see many people finish in great times. Rory won and knocked a minute off his PB. Nick smashed his estimate and even beat his time from two years ago. Oh and England won the football match- no TV but radio updates which in some ways was actually more exciting.

Despite the late night I was up early and the flags and banners were down before most people had surfaced for breakfast. 

On the way home I stopped near Tebay to explore a hillside that we frequently drive past but I have never been up despite the lovely rocky scarp slope and a hill with a trig point behind.

I wasn't disappointed. Steep and pathless at the start but wonderful grassy paths on the top and great views into the Howgills. Only a very short walk/run today so I need to go back and explore further.

Lakeland 5 Passes

 Another Runfurther race actually happened! Race number 4, or for me number 2 as I was injured for Pendle way and didn't travel to Shires and Spires. It had been a busy month with Brennand Watershed, two runs with Rowena,  three runs checking out parts of L100, Nav4 Lakes Mnt 40, the Dales Skyline, a Bowland run plus some cycling and climbing. Two cycle rides and a restful damp Friday was my taper. Checking the entry list it was clear I would meet some friends that I had no seen for ages but that on the whole I would not recognise many people. It was also the day of The Great Lakes Run in Langdale plus Sabs was recovering and Carol waiting to start a mega run. 

We drove up early on Friday afternoon in wet and increasingly windy weather. The rain eventually abated and we put up sponsors flags and banners. The wind was fierce and blasting down from Dunmail Raise so strongly we contemplated taking the flags down at least twice. I don't tend to sleep well before a race and the noise from the wind had me awake more than I would have liked. I was up early to register but even then it had not become clear that Si Entries emails were not getting through to those of us with talktalk. I managed to find some runners and dish out spot prizes before heading to my start wave at 8.25am. 

Starting in this way meant I missed some friends altogether and for much of the time had no real idea who was in front, or just behind and how I was doing. Still, you can only do what you can do. It was quite nice being able to pick off the walkers who had started an hour earlier and those at the front of the alphabet who had been in earlier waves. I never did catch Richard Lendon who had started just 5 minutes ahead of me. Before we even left tarmac I was shouting some runners back and this continued throughout the day. Climbing to the summit of Loughrigg we were still quite bunched and I was able to chat to Ian F. 

Ambleside CP always seems far too early for me to need anything but by now I was regretting the extra layer and faffing with my number and safety pins. I gave up and stuffed it in a pocket in the end. On the steep climb to Wansfell I overtook some runners but was also passed by some faster men. Initially the descent is a delight but I am not good on gnarly bouldery lanes. I lost some places but then regained them as I knew the way down to the valley floor. Stomping up Garburn Pass I managed to eat a bag of crisps and drink a load of MF in between running the slightly less steep sections. The drop to Kentmere is now awful but at least I knew what to expect and looked forward to the CP in the village. I topped up my water and grabbed cake before again putting a runner on the correct path. This event seems to attract many people from a long distance which is lovely. Brighton man ran just ahead or just behind me for much of the race and he was awed by the scenery and the need to use hands as well as feet on some climbs like Stoney Cove Pike. He was also starting to feel the brutal climbs. 

There was some softer ground as we crossed to Longsleddale and the track was less gnarly for the feet. Next up was the long long climb up from Sadgill to the top of Gatesgarth Pass and then on further to Harter Fell. 

I was doing nicely on the big wide track but suddenly tripped and hit the deck. I didn't even have time to put a hand out- perhaps just as well as another female runner did so and dislocated a finger. A bit of a shock and some small grazes to knee and elbow but I was OK really. I was helped up by Geoff who showed great concern. I knew there would be some great bruises later along most of my right side but for now the best thing was to keep going rather than stiffen up. By the top of the pass I was moving OK again. Having company certainly helped and we pushed each other along as well as reeling in a couple of others. Apparently I was first female and that motivated me too, although not knowing if a runner from a later wave  was just behind me was a little disconcerting. 

Looking across the tops earlier I had predicted more challenging conditions on the tops. Before Harter Fell I had to stop and put on my long sleeved base layer- just low cloud and a damp feeling but chilly. We made good time over the tops and down to Nan Bield Pass. 

Heading up from this I knew to check for the grassy area and rather vague left turn. Just before this we bumped into the 'mobile' Safety check who were still on their way to Harter Fell! Nice grassy running took us most of the way to Thornthwaite Beacon and there were a couple of tiny flags to help. No distant views today though and the Beacon remained hidden until we were within 50m or so. 

I feared losing places and my companions as we dropped to Threshthwaite Mouth but I almost kept up and soon reeled them in as we scrambled up Stoney Cove Pike. 

Then easier running dropped us on Kirkstone and the final CP.  I didn't want to stop long but refilled water, grabbed quiche and banana and dug out more crisps. If you are not used to the Lakes or similar Red Screes must come as a shock at this stage in the race. It wasn't long before there were just three of us. Adam was stronger on the descents but Geoff and I could keep up on the climbs. The food did it's trick and we powered our way up and enjoyed the slightly boggy drop to Scandale Pass. 

A determined effort meant ?? couldn't drop us even on the long run down the valley to  pretty little High Sweden bridge and luckily we were still close enough for me to stop him bearing left to Low Sweden Bridge. 

The pace was starting to hurt me now and I wanted the other two to push on so I could slow down. No such luck even when I stopped very briefly to refill my water at the Rydal campsite tap. These last few miles were the only bit I had not receed earlier in the month but basically it's simple- just follow the old Coffin Road until you reach tarmac. We chatted and pulled each other along. I was now far too hot in two layers and had a stone in my shoe but there was no way I was stopping now. Just before the tarmac I realised a PB was possible and it gave just the extra burst of energy needed as we sped down the tarmac, across the main road and into the show ground.  

6 hrs 56 and first female. True it would only have been 3rd place 2 years ago with that time but I was happy. Only 20 secs behind martin and only 6 mins behind Adam.

Our reward was a nice medal and Grasmere gingerbread plus copious amounts of tea and then a  Cumberland sausage meal from the lovely ladies at Fell and Dale catering. The bonus was it was warm and sunny enough to sit in the field chatting and cheering in other runners.

Really great to see so many friends again and to make new friends like 2nd female Wioleta who had a really speedy second half of the race and was always smiling. No photos today thanks to the low cloud on the tops but mainly because I was 'racing' so all are from my recee run on 8th June. 

Once most runners were back we took the flags down and headed off to Kirkstone for the night and well deserved beer. Room with a view... sat in sun, beer, book. What more could I want.

A good nights sleep and I was ready for more adventures. An early start saw me ready to jog from Ambleside to Coniston checking out those last miles of the L100. My arm was sore and my knee stiff and not functioning 100% but there was plenty of time and the sun was out. 

Lots of others were out doing the same but my early start meant I only met two before I reached Coniston- two lads on Loughrigg and a girl in Langdale. 

It was nice to have the trail to myself and to be running through Langdale to the smell of bacon breakfasts on the campsites. The views were beautiful and I recalled climbs we had done on the crags and past MMs with Rowena. By Little Langdale I was hungry and stopped to eat my sandwich and by Tilberthwaite it was getting busy and very warm. The crowds in Coniston were a bit of a shock but I did get a very nice ice cream.

June

 I recovered well after the LDWA 100 and was soon back to cycling and climbing. A week later I had a lovely run with Rowena checking out the next very short Bowand Challenge and then adding lots more for a decent run. We try to avoid weekends unless we know it will be a quiet area so Saturday saw an early start to Dunsop. 

I had planned a 'Brennand Watershed' - like Duncan's Dunsop one but without the horrors of White Hill and it did seem a more natural loop. The birds dived bombed me and set up an awful clatter as usual. I even visited the centre of the Kingdom as I was in the area.

A glorious day and the ground is still pretty dry. Once away from Dunsop I saw nobody for the whole time I was out which is one of the reasons I love Bowland.

Next up was a quick trip to the Lakes. 

In my heart I think I knew that I had not forgotten the L5Passes route but it was a good excuse for a lovely long run and I cut out the tourists in Grasmere and made it over Loughrigg before too many were up. 

There were whole sections when I had the fells and paths to myself which was lovely. 

I met Bob almost by coincidence at the bottom of Garburn Pass and then even more by luck met Angela White on her Parr 62@62 as she made her way up Stony Cove Pike. 

I about turned and jogged with her for a bit. I now have a plan- Steve Parr's original plan was 61 peaks and next year I will be 61. Hopefully there will be lots of excellent days route finding before then as I plan to do it solo and with only minimal road support. More mid-week climbing and cycling followed and then another trip to the Lakes. 

We went up early on Friday and I set out for an easy walk to check some more of the Lakeland100 route- Cockpit, up Fusedale, and then back over Loadpot etc. 

I did run the downs and the route was a bit longer than I had thought. Possibly not the best plan pre-race day. 

We got a shock to find our usual parking spot up on the common was banned but went instead to a quieter section of common for the night having spent the day on the Woodyard which is now Pay and D but only £2.

An early start saw Bob drop me off in Askham at about 6ish. More than enough time to faff with a drop bag of food (Covid rules) and to check Joe was not serious about us needing to carry sun cream. The midges were out and I thought it was blinkin chilly- T shirt, long sleeve base layer and cag! 

Must be getting soft. Minutes rushed by as I caught up with friends I had not seen for months and months and suddenly it was almost half past and time I was running. 

I kidded myself that with no points or prizes I needn't worry about making too much effort and this sort of worked up until High Street as I let Antonio and others pass me. Then nicely warmed up and having met up with Richard L I decided to get into race mode. I love it up by Angle Tarn and it didn't disappoint. 

The rocky decent from Boredale to Patterdale was less awful than in my memory and I was soon topping up water and grabbing food. I ate on the move and was suddenly ahead of five runners. Dominic R soon came past me as did Richard but I hung on pretty well and they were never far ahead after this. The pull up from Grisedale Tarn to Helvellyn who  was tough and hot. A crowded summit was not a place to loiter and I was grateful to the tourists on Swirral Edge who made way for us runners. I think I am getting ore and more cautious on such rocky and slightly technical descents but I was soon off the worst and spotted three runners ahead. It turns out they were a group from the Chilterns and Jess especially was finding she was a little out of her comfort zone. I caught them at the lake outflow and stayed ahead through the Whole in the Wall and down to the valley. Easier running saw the easily over take me but then they stopped at Patterdale and faffed for far longer than me. I grabbed fresh water and a box of custard (kindly opened by JohnV and Stuart) and concentrated on reeling in Richard as we climbed back up to Boredale. Again I couldn't quite catch him or Dominic but I did use them to motivate me along. 

A quick photo shoot on Place Fell and it was down and down to Howtown. It was a shame not to have time to chat with Angela who was taking numbers but it was crowded with tourists and the race was on. I didn't do the race last year so it was my first time on the route without dropping to Thirlmere. Could I keep first female and could I beat 8 hours.  Knowing the end was in sight gave me a boost and I pulled ahead of Richard (although he had started later and so beat me by 5mins in the end). I had to fill up with stream water but needed it as I crossed the common and raced down to the village. 7 hours 52! and after sprawling on the grass drinking beer it was time to refuel on amazing Nav4 soup, bread, more soup and bread and cake and cups of tea. Love Nav4 events. It was great to chat with friends as they finished and to just lie in the sun. I managed to keep my first place too.

Our activities are generally driven by the forecast and Sunday didn't look so good so we came home to shower etc. Stocks replenished and we were back in the lakes on Monday and Tuesday- the sunny days of the week. Bob cycled and I set out to recee more of the Lakeland 100. 

There were big chunks I knew would be straight forward but I was keen to check the few bits I was less sure about and I like to have the paths and turnings in my mind even if there are other runners about. Bob dropped me in Coniston early and it was already warm enough for shorts and T shirt. By the time I was at Walna Scar road the car park was looking pretty full but most people were heading up Dow and I soon had the path to myself. Seathwaite was fairly quiet and I didn't see anybody until I dropped into Eskdale. A few 'new to me' miles took me past Burnmoor Tarn and over to Wasdale. 

Again the car park looked busy but my route by passed the crowds and had me heading up Black Sail Pass where I only met a few people. The climb wasn't too bad although the start of the descent slowed me down. 

The same was true on Scarth Gap- the pull up from the YHA was OK but the descent wasn't worth risking race pace. I must remember in the race that 10 mins lost here will not be vital and there are plenty of other runnable bits.

I was now getting hot and tired. The promised ice cream never happened as at a few minutes to 5pm I wondered if it would still be open. 

No parts of the climb to Sail Pass are especially steep but wow it goes on and on. I needed to refill my water several times and did try to run the contour sections. The rocky trails after the pass were mashing my feet and I was so pleased to reach the grassy slopes after Barrow Door.  What a lovely drop to Braithwaite. Even better Bob offered to drive down from Whinlatter and pick me up! Lakeland 100 might not go over peaks but those first 32 miles or so are tough. It will be important to leave enough in the tank for dawn and the second day. We slept near the Blencathra Centre and I looked forward to an easier day in the morning. It started with easy running downhill and on lanes to Threlkeld before the climb to the Old Coach Road. 

This then had a few more ups than I remembered but was a fairly good surface.

There were a few tricky bits between Dockray and Aira Force and I couldn't quite make the description work but following my nose seemed to fit the GPX file. The crowds going to the waterfall were mostly by passed and soon left behind as I traversed Gowbarrow. It was easy nav but I am glad to have done it as there was more climb than I had realised. After Swinburns Park another section didn't quite fit the text but then easy lanes took me rapidly to Dacre. I had planned to meet Bob here but decided it would be good to carry on to Dalemain as there was plenty of time. I was very disappointed to find the cafe there doesn't sell ice creams! I stopped to eat my sandwiches and to refill my water before heading on to Pooley Bridge. It was heaving but I knew I could get an ice cream there. Easy riverside paths took me to the lovely new bridge. In the shop I asked for a double ice cream only to be told quite sternly that they only sell singles. I am not sure what would have happened if I had replied that I would take two! Have never been told I cannot have that much ice cream before. Refreshed I retraced my steps and then took a lane to meet Bob in Dacre where we sat in the sun drinking coffee until it was time to drive home.

Wednesday saw a rare day of nothing- well no running, cycling or climbing. 

A quick trip to Leeds to deliver books and maps to Chris allowed an overnight in the Dales and then a long run on Friday before the weekend crowds. I have had my eye on Duncan's Dales Skyline for a while and so that was the plan.

 I would be doing it in reverse as we had slept near Settle and was a little anxious about fine route finding and ways over dry stone walls.

A friend had recently done the route and just scrapped in under 10 hours so that was my target- assuming I found my way over the first 12 miles or so. In the end it was fairly straight forward and good grassy paths to Warrendale Knots. Second CP is Rye Loaf and there were no real paths once I left the Dales High Way but in good vis it was easy. The section heading north to the Malham road posed a few more issues as I searched for the best trods and places to cross walls then it was easy up onto Malham Moor and Fountains Fell. Easy but up and up. At this point I questioned why I was doing the route in reverse. It was though beautifully quiet and stayed so until I reached the flanks of Pen Y Gent.

A quick charge to the summit 3hrs 13 and I was soon off to Horton. At least I knew the way now although it was further than I remembered heading across to Inglebrough. Again this would be lovely downhill running if I was going the other way. Luckily I found a welcome spring and got fresh water. I didn't stick around on the summit as it was chilly in the breeze and I was keen to get the descent over with- I really dislike the initial rocky drop off here. Once past the Hill Inn the seemed to be hoards of people coming the other way- some 3Ps challenge no doubt. I bought an ice lolly at the barn and ate it as I ran on. 

Taking the Fellsman trod let me escape some people and I was soon on the summit and at the start of new to me terrain again. The drop west to Kingsdale was good and I found nice grassy paths. Once I had crossed the road it was a different story but the ground was pretty dry as I hacked across to join the big track for a short while. Then it was pathless again for the climb up to Green Hill and the little summit cairn. I couldn't decide whether to stick to the ridge path and do a big loop or head more directly to Crag Hill. In the end I did a bit of both and I arrived just inside 7 hours. Only one peak left now but I knew the next section would be rough and that the last climb would be horrendous. The descent to Barbondale wasn't great, or perhaps my legs were just getting tired but the climb up the other side was dreadful. The vegetation was OK but it was steep and seemed to go on forever. It took me 30 mins and then arriving at the ridge I then found the summit trig was still some way off up hill to the north. My hopes of sub 8hrs30 were not looking good. 

The paths from here to the finish were a joy but further than I had anticipated. I did try and felt like I was really racing but time was bleeding fast as I reached the parkland close to the village. By the time I reached the finish at the church it was 8hrs48.

Oh well, still not bad and only a quick walk to the pub. The pint of bitter-shandy barely touched the sides and I would have ordered a second but £4.50 for 2/3 lemonade and a dash of beer seemed excessive. I rang Bob asking him to come and collect me and sat on the war memorial steps eating my sandwiches. A great day out but I was trashed. Next time I will try it in the other direction. Yes, 12 hours later and I am already remembering how lovely most of it was and making plans.