Birthday challenge run

 A long run on my birthday is becoming a tradition- perhaps my attempt to deny ageing. I had several options in mind but one seemed too big (maybe later) and several of the others too short (might reserve the shorter ones for future years).  rs LDWA100 in the Midlands just did not enthuse me so I browsed the GoFar site and found the Dales Top 10, at 80 hilly miles it seemed perfect. There would be parts I knew but other sections that would be an adventure. Certainly no time to check it all out. Chris has helped on several of my solo runs and I wanted to invite him if he was available- just as well in the end as our van was off the road!  The next decision was deciding which day over the bank holiday would be best- the weather was pretty much the same but a family walk and lunch on Sunday and the hope that Monday into Tues would be quieter meant the run would be on my actual birthday.

Chilly start

Chris and I drove to Horton on Sunday evening and parked up by the now closed Primary School- plenty of space and very quiet so perfect. We went for a short stroll up the lane  and were stunned at how cold the air was thanks to the easterly wind. 

Super crew van

I slept well and woke refreshed at 5am. After a quick breakfast it seemed daft to hang about and at 5.40am I set off. 

A few walkers had already passed the van and I picked these off quickly as I jogged up the lane to Brackenclose and then the footpath towards my first Top Pen y Gent. 

The sun was already up and I was soon shedding layers. the views were awesome and the wildlife not yet disturbed by the masses. The peak loomed large although actually it is only the 9th highest. The rock steps were pleasingly dry and I was soon up at the trig point. Reversing the rock and heading towards Fountains Fell I saw y last people for several hours. I guess I could have skipped F Fell as it is 12th highest but my route sort of took me that way and the GPX from the GoFar website included it. I had two options here and having taken the least tarmac I now guess most people opt for tarmac and then the Pennine Way. My path was mostly dry but the long grass was still wet from overnight and before long my shoes were soaked. Once I reached the PW it was easier running and mostly down hill to the lane that would lead me north to Arncliffe. 

Not a fan of tarmac but speedy miles

I was making good time and the tarmac helped me increase this further. It was a shock to see a worried Bob in my car. He had misunderstood my spreadsheet where I had inserted road crossings and thought I was well behind time. Overall the lane descended but there was one very steep climb up from a stream. 

After birthday kisses I left Bob and took the bridleway behind the village to cross the river and climb Middlesmoor towards Kettlewell. Busy looking at the views I must have missed a small path and climbed higher over the spur than I had intended but it was on a nice grassy path and I didn't really mind. I had seen nobody for ages but Kettlewell was awake and starting to get busy. 

Mixed jogging and hill stomping led me through the village, past the campsite and onto the moor.  Hag Dyke was deserted and I think the last time I was here there was deep snow ( a Fellsman recee with Bob). Great Whernside (6th highest) was up ahead. This was going to be reverse Fellsman and so should be easy except a chilly wind as I reached the top had me dropping quickly for cover and I missed the small path. I dropped too low but found some trods and all was well as I reached the Park rash road crossing. It's is usually dark when I reach here so it made a change to see the scenery. Knowing I would be out all day and most of the night I made myself stop and eat properly. 

Warm now even on the tops

Back on track it was easy to reach the lower slopes of Buckden Pike. It was also a joy to find the bogs by the wall were now bone dry and I was soon up at the memorial. More and more flag stones are being added to the ridge path and I made good time to the trig where there was a small crowd of walkers including Bob and Chris. 

Making good time meant they had not yet completed their walk. More birthday misses and photos before we left Bob and Chris and I jogged down together chatting. 

The cows tried to guard the last gate but were easily moved and we reached the van on the Cray road. I spent a few minutes here eating, drinking and topping up my supplies. 

The stony Gilbert Lane up onto the next moor is fairly steep but I think I prefer flogging up than running down. There were lapwings and curlews everywhere, some getting very cross that I was close to their nesting areas. 

I found the turn off to Staling Busk easily and was delighted to find it was grassy! This lasted a while until it levelled out and became a gnarly track down and into the village. Field paths led me towards Marsett and another gnarly track.

I had not been here before and the 'small' ridge of Wether Fell I had to cross looked bigger than I had hoped. Luckily there were two struggling walkers up ahead and I promised myself I would overtake them by the stile and having done so had to jog on of course. I crossed the old Roman Road and could soon see Hawes nestled by the river Ure. I made  a determined effort not to look too far north to Great Shunner Fell. Lovely grassy field paths led me down and down to Gayle and then Hawes. I had done almost 50km and was moving quite well.  Worries that the small path cutting the corner in Hawes would be crowded proved unfounded and there was no queue at the icecream van. I stopped for a treat which vanished quickly and jogged over the river and towards Hardraw.

 It was more crowded here and I hoped they had found space to park the van and car. No worries- they had a space and were sat sunbathing with mugs of tea. 

Wow it was hot in this valley. I had planned a longer stop here to eat and to change my socks. I had a worrying hot spot on my foot and decided to take both heels. I also charged my phone which had somehow turned itself on. I was using Strava beacon so that they could track me and so needed the battery to stay good.

It was tough getting going after the stop even though the PW track is relatively easy going.  I plodded on trying to ignore the hot spots on my feet and wishing I could run or jog a bit more. 

Great Shunner Fell is 716m (3rd in height) and I was still up on time when I reached the deserted shelter stone at the top. I didn't linger as I knew the next section was perhaps the roughest with a couple of pathless sections.

Bob on his way up Buckden Pike

At least it had dried out in recent weeks and I found the quad bike track more quickly today.  The climb up past the shooting butts was grim and I felt very slow- still 5 tops done if you count Fountains Fell and I was still up on time. It was a relief to reach Hugh Seat at 689m and a decent path. This is 10th highest but not include in todays list? I must find out why. Nor is the next top Gregory Chapel which is 695m. I had to pass them anyway to reach the out and back peak of High Seat. 

The summit

At 709m the top of this is rather underwhelming but I was just glad to turn and know that the next few kilometres were downhill and on grass all the way to Hells Gap and the B road. I knew Chris was keen to check out this stream, gorge and waterfall but he was just a little too early to meet me. I stopped for more food and top ups before crossing the road and heading up to Swarth Fell. Despite my concerns about them driving tired they insisted they would see me in Garsdale. The ridge path was much drier than I have ever known it and I was so pleased that my route stopped at 681m and did not have to go all the way north to Wild Boar Fell even though that is 705m and 5th highest in the Dales. Running back down the ridge was a joy until I reached the low col and a boggy section and then the pathless slightly tussocky ground leading to the bridleway. Once into Grisedale it was farm lanes all the way to Garsdale. I had seen nobody for ages again but the birds were chirping away and I had seen deer, mice, shrews, rabbits, hares and now a fox. I had collected my torch just in case but certainly didn't need it yet even though the moon was starting to look interesting. 

So many meadows and flowers

The tarmac lane was boring if easy and I tried to identify and count wildflowers to distract myself. Before long I was at Dandra Garth and the van again. 

Moon is up but still light

They had managed a short snooze when I stopped to eat, drink coffee and replenish things again. I was struggling to eat now. 

Dandra Garth

I waved them bye as the sun was setting and the moon rising high. The bridleway over to Dentdale was drier and better than I remembered and it was a gorgeous evening. Dropping into the valley at Cowgill it was just getting dark and I put my torch on, partly to warn and drivers I met. I actually met none despite running several kilometres west along the bulk of Dentdale but they would not have been expecting a pedestrian and there were tall hedges with almost no verge. Eventually I reached the small bridge and woodland that we run past on the Fellsman. I was careful here as I wanted to take the first little used path and so avoid a farm yard and dogs. I found it despite thigh tall meadow grass and flowers. The water eroded stony path up to the old green lane was steeper and harder work than I had anticipated after my recee. I now had a choice- follow the hill straight up as on my recee or go along the green lane to the quarry in the hope that the paths there led all the way up. If they did I did not find them in the dark and that section of the green lane was awful with huge puddles and rocks. Perhaps neither way would be good at this stage in the run but I was very glad to have my poles as I flogged up the slope. Despite the sunset this was a low point- I needed to have eaten more- and I felt like I was crawling. Once on the top I quickly ran past Great Coum687m (10th) and on to Crag Hill 682m (11th). I have no idea why Crag Hill is included but the return trip was only about 1.5km and was relatively level. From this last trig I could see the lights of civilisation and a town.

The next job was to get back down to the green lane. I found a trod beside a wall from the col which took me most of the way. Fortunately this section of the old track is much better and I managed to jog most of the way to the road. Only two peaks to go now even if they are the two highest ones! Both guys were sleeping when I arrived and I felt quite guilty disturbing them, especially as I did not stop long as I did not really want to eat. I set off along the road linking Deepdale to Kingsdale and they promised to see me near the Hill Inn. I found the footpath up New Pasture and flogged up the back of Whernside. It was still warm as the mass of the hill protected me from the easterly wind. 736m and the highest peak done. I made reasonable time along the big ridge path but the wheels really came off on the descent. In the dark, on tired legs and with what seemed like constant multiple trip hazards I slowed dreadfully. I did not dare to cut across the grass as I had in daylight. The campsite was silent and as I reached the last cattle grid I spotted Chis who had come out to meet me. The moon was huge and bright yellow. Awesome. They had parked way up the road where it was wider- it wasn't far but I was perhaps a little grumpy about it. A brief stop and I was off up the last peak. 

Not from my run as it was still dark- last peak

Easy running to start with and even the flag stones ere OK. I slowed badly on the rock steps and over the summit plateau to the final trig at 723m. The path from here to Horton is a fair few kilometres but I had forgot how gnarly it is for tired legs. It seemed to take forever to reach a runnable path and I was losing much of my time advantage. As I hit the lower slopes and a decent path it was light enough not to need my torch and at last I could run. I really wanted to stay under 24 hours. 

I crossed the railway and ran through the village, past the old cafe, the campsite and the pub until the lane to the school. Yes- the van and car were in sight at last. 

Challenge complete- 80 miles, almost 5000m of climb and 23hrs 18 mins. 13 peaks although Fountains Fell and not Wild Boar Fell is still a puzzle. Not a bad way to spend the 24hrs of your birthday! 

I was too tired to want to eat and they had been asleep so I had a very quick and superficial wash before falling into bed. So many great memories of a grand day out in the beautiful Dales. 

Celebrations the next day

 Huge thanks to Bob for his support and encouragement and especially to Chris my super crewman for his time and the use of his van, including his bed for my smelly body at the end. I could not have done it without you both.

The Spire Ultra

 A short(ish) race and so a short blog. We had decided to combine this race with and errand and family and climbing, it is after all a bit of a trek fro Preston. The errand was a success- collect the poles I left at the Fellsman from a house near Keighley. So far so good. Then we encountered the Bradford CAZ... would have been cheaper to post the poles. Hey ho.

We spent the rest of the day climbing at the newly opened Leeds Big Depot climbing wall. It was great- masses of routes, holds I had never seen before and we stayed for hours. Chris and Alice came after work and then we all went for a lovely meal. We said our goodbyes and went back to the climbing wall- an even longer stint today. When we left I had done all but 3 that I wanted to do or try.  Hands sore, arms buzzing with exhaustion and very tired. At least we had a night stop ready planned only a 5 min drive from the race start. Meal in van, wine, cheese and an early night. I didn't sleep very well but that is not unusual before a race.  Apparently the east of the Pennines had been much wetter than Lancashire and there would be MUD. Mud here just means peat bog and mess but over there it means gloopy, slippery stuff. What shoes to wear?

We were at the start by soon after 7am and the flags, banners and boards were up by 7.20. I put the rope mats inside, registered quickly and went back to the van for breakfast. The forecast had promised no rain and warmth. It didn't quite feel that way at 8.30am but perhaps it was coming. After multiple toilet trips and after catching up with many friends we were herded outside ready to walk up the road to the start. I kissed Bob goodbye and told him to enjoy his bike ride.

Ashok- behind me at the start but only for 1 minute!

At 9 we were all off the road and on the narrow path. Jamie said Go and we were off. I had tried to play the route of the race through my mind in bed last night but could only remember patches. I hoped as I reached each section it would come back to me.  At least the section past the 'new' houses would be easy- this is where two of us went wrong a couple of years ago- then we had started at the farm and so it was near to the end of the race. There were plenty of people around for the first mile or so but then the first ten or so fast runners started to pull ahead. I was alone for a short while until a guy from Wales was running with me.Two heads are always better than one, even with a GPS watch. She and her partner made a couple of small errors and although they were slightly faster down the worst of the mud they never got far ahead. We were to see lots of each other.

So far so good. At almost every decision point I recognised the route and at a couple of places I had a short hesitation but was fine. The first woods were not too muddy and we got to Holymoorside unscathed. 

The next woods were muddy but we were soon on field paths heading to the main road crossing- some faster running here and on tarmac for a while. I felt I was struggling but tried to keep in contact with Sam and her partner. Linacre woods were muddy too and my feet were now wet fro a stream crossing but I stayed upright. More fast running took us to the footbridge over the A61 and some more muddy woods.

At two points we crossed fields with tall bright yellow oil seed rape with enough pollen to coat my arms and clothing in yellow dust. By CP4 opposite the Miners Arms in Hundall I needed food and so stopped briefly. From memory the more attractive scenery was over for a while. 

Another section of sploshy and slippery mud led me to New Whitington and then having crossed the river, canal and railway into Brimington. This is where Sam first pulled away and out of sight. I plodded uphill through the houses to the next CP but could not see them. I ran this next section almost alone with just one guy passing me in West Wood.  From here we started to pick up old tracks and the disused rail line trails- NOT my favourite. They seem to stretch on forever and there is not excuse not to keep running despite feeling a bit trashed by now. On the plus side I could still see Sam in the distance every now and again and that kept me going along with the hope that the CP at Longcourse would have it's usual array of fab food. Yes- boiled potatoes, strawberries and melon. Sam had pushed on but on the long track up to Scarsdale Hall I could see them again briefly. 

The climb up to Heath was tough but we were now on the home straight. The 5 Pits Trail paths were easy running compared to the mud but again they seemed to stretch on with no respite. I made one stupid error here and lost about 3 minutes as I headed downhill on a nice wide path only to have to turn around and flog back up again. The only thing keeping me going now was the hope that I could stay under 6 hours and not be too far behind Sam to maximise my Runfurther points- even then I did slow to walk a couple of times. Finally I reached the outskirts of North Wingfield and knew it was only 500m to the end.

A tough day out but it had not rained. I had not fallen in the mud and I did creep in under 6 hours. In fact my time was exactly the sae as my first go at the race in 2019. That year I won, this year 2nd but still first old lady. 

Bob had been out on his bike having fun but Ashok took a photo as I finished. I was about 6 mins behind Sam. 

First 3 women

The winning man took the record in 4hrs 12 minutes- incredible. I recovered with Jamie's dahl soup, cups of tea and cake before relaxing on the grass outside and applauding others as they finished. As a bonus I got a large and apparently very potent bottle of his dad's cider.  One nice touch today was seeing Pete Carter back to ultra racing. He is an old friend from Preston Harriers and took me to my first ultra in 2009- the Haworth Hobble telling me it would be fine, it's just a long fell race but with some food. Just look what you started Pete!

The Fellsman

 Last year I entered this event with great trepidation after my disaster at the NT. This year I was more positive, or just resigned to being older and slower. I had not run a huge amount since the Calderdale Hike but we did have a few days away in the Dales. 

What it looks like without the mist

This let me recee the new CP and also to get in two decent length runs. On these it was bright sunshine so warm in the valleys but chilly on the tops thanks to a biting cold wind. The forecast for this weekend was warmer but the forecasters seemed rather unsure how much rain we might get and when it might arrive. Not a bad Fellsman forecast though.

Our wonderful sponsors- the barriers were moved

Four hours climbing was perhaps not ideal preparation but we stuck with our standard Friday routine. Despite this we were at Threshfield soon after 5pm and as Bob was helping all weekend we could park at the school. The flags and banners were soon up and it was not a chore given the warm sunshine. The boards were up in the hall with a list of the spot prize winners and there was enough space for me to lay out all the rope mats and dog toys that I make for Mountain Rescue funds. 

After helping to unload the food van I grabbed a quick meal in our van before heading for registration. I was first in the queue and bagged my place on the last bus. It felt strange and rather sad without Kate on registration. Kit check was as thorough as I have come to expect but I was not at all worried- I have suffered enough in bad weather at this event to not even dream of cutting any kit corners! 

Possibly the most thorough kit check ever

Young Timothy Driver on his first stint at a whole weekend volunteer did kit check and then handed out our mint cake so I was free to chat with friends and keep an eye on spot prizes and sell mats. Thanks to all who bought- another £60 to Mountain Rescue.

The A team

At 9pm I checked on Bob in the kitchen and went back to the van to do a last minute faff with gear before some cheese, wine and an early bed. Bob came back some time after 10pm but I barely woke. He also disappeared back to the kitchen at 4am to start preparing breakfasts. I dozed until almost 6 when I got dressed and had breakfast. Fellsman rules have always stated 'full leg cover from dusk' and as it is such a pain to change at that stage I opted for long tights. I was far to warm for much of the day and need to check on this rule as I do not think they applied it this year.

By 6.30am we had a full bus and were on our way to Ingleton. I don't travel well and this is not my favourite part of the day- perhaps we should make the Fellsman 100 miles and circular? Despite the queue for trackers, tallies and race numbers there was still plenty of time to find friends, sort out a team and make several trips to the toilet. Julian organised a team of relative oldies and then we were herded out onto the playing field. Cag or no cag? it seemed mild but then the air got damp, what to do? I decided to be brave and took my cag off. We were late starting and had a minutes silence for missing friends. Despite the clag and damp my neighbours Drew and Liz who were CP marshalls on Ingleborough seemed in fine spirits and were full of encouragement. The cag went on- too early to risk wet layers.

I really dislike the stone steps off the summit and despair at how slowly I descend. Mark had showed me an alternative but he was somewhere behind and I did not want to risk an untried route on race day. I chatted to Albert and Toney as we headed to the next CP at Hill Inn. By now it was dry again and rather warm. Cag off- and it stayed off for most of daylight hours. Not needing any food or water at this stage I plodded on and began the ascent of Whernside. One welcome distraction before the steepness kicked in was SportSunday out taking photos as usual. 

David takes great photos and always makes me smile. Then it was up and up. Our route takes an out and back to the summit which is interesting as you get to see how far behind faster runners you are and to shout encouragement at each other.

More friends at the Whernside CP

The run along the ridge before you turn to Kingsdale is a joy, then it is over the stile and rougher terrain to the river. I was  starting to suffer back pain and stopped long enough to sort out my poles in the hope they would keep my posture more upright. It did work, but not instantly. Charles had now passed me and he was delighted to have done so early on in the race. Bill J was also going strong (for the time being). The climb seemed to take forever and I did not feel strong. At the top I had time to shout Hi to Kat before she headed off to Great Coum. The out and back to Gragareth is always interesting as it is another opportunity to see who is just ahead. The ridge top was drier than often but still had some boggy bits- I concentrated on staying in touch with those just ahead of me. By the next CP I had caught some. I was confused when the group in front headed off left. I even followed initially before saying out loud "This is wrong". I cut back right and down to reach the good if rather wet quad bike track by the wall. Before Flinters Gill I had caught them all and overtaken some.  I did lose some ground to a few on the nasty track down to Dent- I hate being such a wuss but my shoes were not gripping well and now seemed half a size too big too. My shock in Dent was finding that we were all being pulled over for a kit check, including things buried deeply in my sack. At least it was all of us and not a random sample. First time I have ever been kit checked mid race at the Fellsman. Luckily I managed to repack my sack so that it was still comfortable. I grabbed a cheese and onion roll, ate lots of melon and set off to try to catch Bill. He was never far ahead and then got confused at a road junction so I did catch him. At the correct junction Fiona was waiting with the dogbut I had no idea how far Mark might be behind me as I had not seen him since the Hill Inn. 

Around here I started to catch up with Paul Tynan, who I knew, and Ken his club mate. We were to see quite a lot of each other for the rest of the day. A whole group of us cut over the back edge of Whernside and found the trod that would lead us to Blea Moor. I always get wet feet somewhere on this section and today was no exception; I suspect like parts of Bowland that it never dries out. This year I stayed on the ridge by the fence a little longer after the CP and reached the track by the railway tunnel air shaft a bit more easily. The turkey is no more! and after a short boggy section I met the road leading to Stonehouse. 

The CP staff make such a great effort

I must have overtaken Bill somewhere but Anne was waiting for him and gave me a cheery confidence boost. Timothy was at this CP and loving it so I made tie for a quick chat before joining Paul and Ken for pasta, tea, cake and more. 

Upright once more

Nicola who looked familiar (and she should as we ran at P39 together) was also there. I climbed Artengill Beck slowly letting my food digest. The others pulled ahead slightly but by Great Knoutbery summit we were together again. This is the third out and back so yet another chance to see how you are doing. My back had eased now and I was feeling more positive. Spotting Kat, Ben and others boosted me- true , I still had some of the climb to do and they were zooming down and off to Redshaw but they were not that far ahead. The marshalls at this CP was basking in sunshine which must be a pretty rare occurrence.

Stonehouse- all 4 of us but before we teamed up

After the long flat boggy section Paul and Ken took a slightly higher line and I managed to catch them up briefly before they zoomed off to Redshaw. They did not stop long but I knew I needed to take the time to eat here or I would pay for it later. I did eat my banana on the next section though as I knew running hard would not be possible through the boggy section. They were just leaving Snaizholme as I approached and again it was sunny. The next section is more runnable and I worked hard at trying to reduce the gap before Dodd.

I was helped by Ros who had come out to shout encouragement and Matt Neale who met me and encouraged me to jog (he was probably thinking- Come on Run). I have been to the Dodd CP in foul conditions but not today, although Matt said when he first arrived it was raining steadily and vis was poor. With his motivation I pushed on and the four of us reached the CP together. Our team was starting to come together even if we did not know it yet. I led the way across the moor to the wall with confidence when Ken wanted to go off in the wrong direction and then showed them the way through to reach the lane and beaconed path to Fleet Moss.  As usual in longer races I could feel my body shutting down on the food front. I opted for a huge mug of fruit salad figuring that it would be full of energy but would also give me some liquid and slide down easily. Trying to run and eat this with fingers got very messy but I was determined to eat it all even if it meant Paul got ahead.  Anne came past in her van so I guessed Bill could not be far behind. He and Ken were significantly faster on the road section and were out of sight when Nicola and I arrived at the new Deepdale CP. She pulled ahead slightly to Yockenthwaite but not by far. As we stopped to check where we each wanted to leave the track and to put on cags as it was now misty and chilly we could see the men heading further uphill on the track. I had recceed this bit less than a fortnight ago and although it was now misty I was fairly sure my line was fine. Nicola took slightly different lines but we  were now marginally ahead of the men. Somewhere here my watch died. No panic as I had OS on my phone but that was not going to be as convenient as the watch. I need to play with the battery settings more. From this new CP it is a fairly quick and easy run to Hells Gap which is now at the obvious track junction rather than higher up the track. We were shown the way in with bright lights and Simon and Garfunkel playing loudly. Not a place to hang around so after a quick thanks it was off to Cray. Anne was here again waiting for Bill.

Here we all stopped for food and also to put some extra clothes on. Having stopped it felt chilly so I added another long sleeve and my over trousers. I was soon baking! We trotted off towards Buckden Pike together and only made one very small error when we left the wall for a short time. We started discussing route options and it was good to know we could combine my knowledge, Paul's watch and also Nicola's ideas. 

No Joe F this year but cheery marshalls anyway

It was still light on the Pike but as we ran along the flag stone path and crossed to the war memorial we stuck near to the wall- there are better lines a little further out but only if you can see well. The big decision is how to descend the next section- we opted for the diagonal which is what I have always done. However we took a slightly higher line and it was better and brought us out at the mine tips without the need for the muddy track. We were still running without torches and I went over on an ankle badly enough to yelp. I hoped if I kept going it would be OK. and was pleased to have the poles for some extra support. Soon after this we arrived at the Starbotton CP where they were amazed we had not yet turned torches on. We did shortly afterwards!

On, on to Park Rash- some running , some walking but all forward progress. I tried to eat here and managed a little before feeling I might heave. I didn't want to waste what I had managed to get in and so stopped eating. I could have done with more. I hate being the weak link in a team and so set a good pace as we started up Great Whernside before we all slowed on the steep pull to the stile. We ran some of the next section with Paul leading but there were too many trip hazards to keep a consistent pace. We found the little blue CP tent wedged amongst the rocks and knew that we had done the last significant climb. We all agreed that the fence was going to be our friend even if we didn't actually stay right next to it. There were the expected boggy bits but it wasn't too bad and again the poles were a great aid here. My strava trace shows we made a pretty good fist of this and it didn't take too long to arrive at Capplestone Gate. We got clipped, whooped and pushed on. I knew this bit and Paul had recced it so we made good time to the beacons and flags that would lead us across the field paths heading south and then the tracks towards Yarnbury.  We were all starting to suffer and take it in turns to slow down or speed up. Chatting and being a group helped to keep us going. I suggested that at the tarmac those who could run should push on. Although it is either flat or downhill I know in the past I have struggled to keep running the whole way. Nicola and I think Ken felt we should finish as a team but I really didn't want people to wait or to feel I had to try harder than my body wanted to. As it turned out three of us were in the same boat and took turns deciding to run or stop. 

Paul though managed to pull away and was back 3 mins before us. He therefore took the V60 trophy. Perhaps I should have tried harder to stay with him.. it wasn't far, was all on tarmac and was almost all downhill. 

I was chuffed to finish in 16hrs 18 mins which although not a PB was one of my better times. Bob had left the kitchen to come out and meet me which was lovely. We took 'team' photos before staggering off to eat and drink. 

I couldn't face collecting gear and a full shower so wandered off to the van for a strip wash and to fall into bed. Bob had a few more hours to do in the kitchen though! He spent more hours on his feet than I did with only a short bike ride on Saturday morning as a change of scenery.

I was in the van by 2am and asleep soon afterwards. Bob arrived back about 5am ish and I snoozed until about 7.30 when I got up. I was able to welcome in some later runners, briefly see Charles and Claire, have breakfast, congratulate Kat and Maria who had both had amazing runs and then have even more to eat. 

Phil and Claire appeared along with Julian and Stephanie. Lots of chat and stories to swap before I headed out to take down flags and banners. It was just starting to rain but not heavily.  

Part of the Oldies winning team

The prize giving seemed slightly shorter and less vibrant than sometimes but we had a good chat about the previous day and future plans. 

I sold a few more mats and people started to drift away. Bob was back in the kitchen and I went in to help. A mega washing up session ensued... cups, plates, cutlery and worst of all those metal trays that had baked the sausages and bacon. By1pm I was wilting and we announced it was time for us to head home. There was some rain on the journey and I reflected on how lucky we had been with the weather. Next year is the 60th Fellsman and it will be my 10th so I guess I will have to enter.

The Calderdale Hike

I sold my place for the Haworth Hobble which was the second race in the Runfurther series.... I have done the race any ties, it's tough and always very well attended by speedy fell runners. We needed a bigger block of tie for adventures on the continent and this was the sacrifice.

12 days skiing went well with some mixed and interesting weather but no big falls, except that is on the concrete floor of the ski room. It was over in seconds but what a crash landing. Left ski boot skidded, kicked the other boot off the floor, legs up, body down. Wham. Huge bruise on my hip but some hidden and more serious damage to my left torso. No idea  but either cracked/broken ribs or seriously pulled muscles. Couldn't lift arm above horizontal and a cough or sneeze was a disaster. It meant climbing wasn't really possible although I did try for a couple of days before admitting defeat. We checked out Sisteron but did an amazing walk instead (caves, crawls, the odd wire and rung) plus I walked/jogged up a hill from our wild camp. Gigondas was superb as usual and it was frustrating not to be able to climb properly but I had two wonderful runs and a walk with Bob instead. En route to Spain we called in at St Series Via Feratta, partly to break the journey and partly to check my progress. It was a chilly start but warm in the sun. Ribs not great but VF possible.  Next stop was the border. My race in the summer does not quite go sea to sea and so I wanted to do the first 35k from the sea. If I complete I will then be able to say I have done the whole route. We had a great coastal walk together and then I ran from the Med to Perthus whilst Bob moved the van.  The weather on the coast was warm and sunny even just after sunrise. I was sweating on the first big climb and then it all changed. The sun vanished, the wind got up and the temperature dropped. The middle part of my route which should have been wonderful high grassy tops became a battle for staying upright and warm enough. I was carrying spare gear but only just enough. Thick mist didn't help as my slower speed didn't help keep me warm. By the end it was much warmer again but still windy.  I lost the GR10 markers at one point and then thought I had found them- but it was an old disused route. A chat with two farmers got e back on track. so just 850km or so left to do! We were hyped to go back to some favourite climbing areas, especially as we missed the last year but it seemed daft to drive as far as Benidorm and find I still couldn't climb. Instead we explored areas we had previously driven past further north and inland fro Barcelona. Found some lovely mountains and some Via Feratta- in Spain they are not easy to find, not always well maintained and in some cases closed but we had fun despite failing to find one and me carrying a 60m rope on an all day ridge walk.... training I guess. All too soon it was time to start the journey home. A day stop at Puy le Dome allowed a wonderful run en route.

One reason for the return was the Calderdale Hike- the next race in the Runfurther series. I wasn't sure I was up to 37 miles or so and a stiff neck from climbing on Friday didn't help matters. We drove across in the van and parked up at the school (made famous in Happy Valley) for the night. It was quiet and I slept well. An earlier than expected start to the cricket season meant we started at the cricket club as usual but would finish at the tennis club. By 8am Nick and Jenny had arrived,we had all the flags and banners up and we oved down the cricket club to register. As always there were loads of friends to catch up with and much discussion about various route choices that could be taken during the day.

Sun in my eyes

All the runners started together and at 9am we were off. It was already warm and I knew I would have to shed a layer before long. The first lanes soon passed and we were dropping down the cobbled and stone track to Mytholmroyd. Claire and Ashok were just ahead and not sure of the way but I knew it was foolish to try to keep up. On the climb I shed my layer and then had to shock of running on brown slippery stuff MUD, for the first time in 6 weeks. 

I did in fact catch them by the time we were on the big track below Stoodley Pike and entering Lumbutts. I grabbed a bite to eat at the church but did not want to linger. AS we dropped towards the outskirts of Tod they pulled further ahead and vanished. No worries I like being on my own and I knew where I was going. 

More mud followed from the golf club to the CP at Mount Cross but then it was down hill on tarmac until the little enclosed path led to Cornholme. Apparently Claire and Ashok went astray briefly here but I knew of the back alley and also the way up onto Flower Scar. I had decided I was not going up through the MTB woods but stayed on the lane a little longer before cutting onto the moor. The Tod Centenary Way might be slightly longer than up by the turbines but there was less climb. Just before Horden Gate I made a bad choice through a cow area and got very muddy but arrived at the CP as Martin T came in from the other direction. We chatted as we went along Limers Gate and up towards Trough Edge End. Martin, who has form for nav errors, had not made sense of the drop to the canal route and so was sticking to the turbines. I decided that as the CP was moving further and further down the lane I would try the drop for the first time. It seemed better than retracing our steps and climbing up onto the moor. Kevin H had assured me it was 5 ins faster but I think for e the gain was even more. An easy run down tarmac and then a good path down to the main road really upped my pace the the pavement by the main road and then the canal were easy running. 

A recee from a previous year

It wasn't as scenic but definitely faster. I never saw Martin or the others that went the turbine way again! A slight rise to Summit and then quickly down to Sladen Fold where I was alone the whole tie. I remembered the way up to the pub and then the White House- Claire and Ashok went via the turbines and went off course again in Sladen. The pull up to the White House was tough and I stopped to refill my water. No sandwiches this year but at least I had plenty of my own food. The only time I was chilly all day was on the next stretch towards the M62. 

Not today!

I love Blackstone Edge but know that is faster along the goyt which is easier running and allows you to miss some climb. The noise of the motorway is grim but I was soon turning north towards the new CP and Green Withens reservoir. It was here that Claire and Ashok caught me up. I was feeling trashed after the easy speedy running so we were not together long. 

Today the sun was taking a brief rest at this point

On the climb up onto Rishworth Moor they pulled further ahead and were eventually out of sight. I plodded on. Ryburn Reservoir came and went with now mostly small lanes and a big track all the way to the finish. I couldn't see runners but concentrated on trying to keep my pace good by picking off walkers on the short and medium route who had now rejoined our route. Fro the last CP it was pretty much downhill and I urged myself to run. Jackie was coming the opposite way on her bike- a stiff ride home after her run on the medium route and we shouted hellos. Having the church near the event centre is a real bonus, except perhaps for years when the route climbs up fro the canal valley bottom, as you can see it and know the end is in sight. Bob had come out to see me in and take a photo. 

I thought I was running fast!

I arrived at the Tennis Club in 7hrs 11 and only 10 mins behind the others. Kevin, Adam and others were of course long gone. Tea and chilli jacket potato refreshed e but I seriously missed the yogurt and custard that is usually on offer and the cans of beer did not look as attractive as the real bar in the cricket club. We sat chatting with Phil and Claire, laughing at all her extra bits from nav errors. She would have been much further ahead of me otherwise. Martin T and the other turbine route users arrived shortly afterwards. 

A good day out and although y legs and feet were a bit sore I had done better than I dared to hope. Off home promptly for a family weekend. Chris and Alice arrived on Saturday night and we all met up with Matt, T and Layton on Sunday. Almost perfect- except for L being quite a poorly boy.