Birthday run

 It seems a long time since I posted and I certainly have not been doing nothing! Lots of indoor climbing, quite a few bike rides and some big Wainwright walks and runs.

It has become a thing to do a big run on my birthday as proof to myself that I am not really getting old. Denial yes. I had a variety of options in mind but knew I had to plan with only Bob as support this year plus I did not want to do anything too crazy as I had some races in June. A local guy had written a book on a route he devised called the North West Way which goes from Preston to Carlisle via some interesting places. At 192 miles I was tempted to do it all but then the weather in the preceding fortnight was awful and I decided to be sensible and do half of it. I quite liked the idea of running home and knew that this would work well for Bob supporting me and so the plan was Bowes to Preston. All down hill and running home. Of course it was also into the wind and no it really was not all down hill. There would be plenty of variety underfoot, in the scenery and also in terms of bits I knew or did not know.

First light in Bowes

We drove north past all the bow topped caravans making their way to Appleby Horse Fair and were in Bowes by early evening. Two of my planned park ups were non starters but the third was fine although traffic noise from the nearby A66 was not ideal. I was already packed and organised and so with itchy feet I went out to explore. It is a pretty little village with some gentrified houses, a pretty church and the ruins of a castle. I decided not to start by the castle as the field paths had long grass that would be very wet in the morning. Wet feet after 500m when the next 8 miles were on big dry tracks seemed daft.

Ready for a long day

I was up as my alarm went at 4.30am and after a quick breakfast a photo left the van in cool but dry weather. I was cautious on the first mile or so but once on the big tracks over the moors I relaxed and made good progress. 

Setting off for home

The route opted for the drivable shooters track rather than the Pennine Way path so my feet stayed dry all the way to Tan Hill Inn.  All was quiet as I passed the pub and those in campervans were still asleep. 

Not the best selfie

Here I turned south on the Pennine Way which although following a good track was wet and muddy after all the recent rain. Beautiful wild scenery all the way.

Wild moors above Keld

Before long I could see Keld and recognised the scenery from my Northern Traverse runs. With  no need to divert to toilets or shop in Keld I was soon near Crackpot Hall (what a great name) and entering new territory. 

Keld village

The route ignores the PW and the Pennine Journey paths and stays to the east of the river. Again it was a good track  and then some lovely old flagstones all the way to Muker.

Old mine workings

Quickly admiring the old buildings in the hamlet I took field paths where the flood water had just about receded and headed west to Thwaite. It was now properly morning and I got some strange looks as I passed the camp site. 

Beautiful meadows

Bob had found a good parking place above Thwaite and it was good to see him and to eat and drink. 

Off to the moors again

Determined not to get comfortable I was soon on my way up the track leading towards Great Shunner Fell (2384m) and Bob shot off over Buttertubs to Hardraw.  Soon the track became grassy and very wet and muddy. The sections of flagstones were under about 8-10 inches of water but they were better than the muddy boggy sections.  As I neared the summit the drizzle started. Fortunately it was really just wetting out of low cloud and soon stopped. 

Grey but not yet too wet

I had been looking forward to the 5 miles of track which would drop me into Wensleydale but for the first mile or so had to be cautious given the underfoot conditions. The views were wonderful, the bird life amazing (grouse and curlews mainly) and I met my first walkers of the day. It was a joy to be running downhill as it is a track I have only ever gone up before.  

Arriving in Hardraw

Bob was parked exactly where I met the tarmac. More food and a cup of tea. Over 22 miles done and I was up an schedule.

Refuelling

Knowing the way made the next miles easy and allowed me to relax and take in the scenery. I love the dales with their meadows full of flowers, lambs and birds. It was warm but not too hot now. Road signs saying floods/closed caused some concern but they were a day or so old. I did stay on the PW rather than the smaller path close to the river but managed to get from Hardraw to Hawes with no issues. Thwarted by flood water would have been very irritating and the road had been shut 48hrs earlier. The small town was getting very busy with walkers, tourists and shoppers as I took the old stone path behind the creamery and into Gayle. Bob meanwhile went to the cheese shop and bought me lots of extra birthday presents!

I love the Dales

Once out of town and on Gaudy Lane I was alone again heading up and up on the PW. My feet were soaked but did not seem to be suffering at all. I was moving towards Fellsman and Dales High Way paths that I knew. Running along the big track below Dodd Fell seemed easier than when racing the Fellsman and I had time to admire the view north to Snaizeholme and Great Knoutberry. 

Off Cam High Road but still good tracks

At Kidstone Gate I joined Cam High Road, an old Roman route, and had excellent views of the Y3Ps and Ribblehead Viaduct. 

Ribbleshead viaduct and 3Ps scenery

At Cam End it was a sharp left turn to head south but still on the PW. Good tracks were certainly helping me make good progress here. Ling Gill looked interesting and a good spot to swim plus there is lots of history- a 16th century bridge  and old mine workings. 

Looking a bit grey but still dry

From Old Ing there are multiple paths but I stuck to that chosen for the NWW rather than the slightly lower Ribble Way. Along this section I passed a few walkers, a DoE group and then a friend out running with her son: always a nice surprise. 

So much water everywhere!

At Sell Gill Holes I remembered a winter walk with Bob where we sheltered from the wind to picnic. Before long I was in Horton in Ribblesdale. It was surprisingly quiet although the campsite looked full.

A quiet spot in Horton

I had decided in advance that the best spot for Bob was by the old primary school. I knew there would be space and that it would be quiet if he needed a snooze. Being in Brackenbottom meant Pen Y Gent would be a short out and back but in the end the weather changed my plans here anyway. As I ate and drank in the van we could see the weather closing in. 

Cag on - it's going to rain

Sure enough, by the time I had climbed 1km east the cloud was low and the air was damp. There seemed little point gaining the peak with no view. I had been many times before and didn't want to risk a slip on the greasy rocks either. Instead I headed south to Churn Milk Hole and eventually the lane. It was now wet and I found PW walkers hiding behind a wall sorting their gear. Climbing onto Fountains Fell seemed to take a while; I guess I was getting tired now after 40+miles and the boggy ground was slowing me down. No photos either. Dropping towards Tennant Gill Farm the rain eased but the paths stayed horribly wet and boggy all the way to the road. I consoled myself with the maths that by the south side of Malham Tarn I would be pretty much half way. It was a relief to reach the tarmac driveway to the hall and also to have the distraction of all the wooden carved birds and animals as I climbed. 

Waves on the tarn

Reaching the tarn more walkers appeared making the most of the now dry weather. I ate more here. I cannot remember what but know there was soup, fresh mango, quiche and cups of tea. 

Arriving at Malham Tarn car park

Leaving the main car park it was soon obvious the whole area had been flooded and much of the flat grass was still under water with raging streams where there is often just a trickle. A rather circuitous route got me through. I had been anxious about the next section knowing how much I dread wet muddy limestone and the gnarly path below Ing scar did not disappoint. 

Heading to Malham Cove

It was a relief to reach the limestone pavement above the Cove. Usually I would bounce across this but today with tired legs I took more care.

Limestone pavement

It was busy with many families having walked up from the campsite and car parks on such a pleasant afternoon/evening. No time for me to explore the village today.

The iconic view

In my head it would be down hill from here to Hellifield; of course it wasn't. A couple of miles and I was in Kirkby Malham and alone again. Here the paths deteriorated with first a slippery steep muddy affair in the woods and then rather indeterminate paths through meadows with thigh high grass all the way to Otterburn. At least from there to Hellifield was easy and was downhill! I was very pleased to see Bob and the van and to have yet more refreshments. A day later would have been a disaster as the Long Preston road was blocked for hours- perhaps by the travelling vans. I should probably have stopped and changed my socks here, if only to check on my feet, but there seemed little point as I knew they would soon be soaked again.

You would think from here to Preston across relatively lowland and flattish field paths would be easy. It proved to be the toughest part of the day. The paths are clearly walked much less and this meant the nav was more tricky plus with the recent rain and warmth the vegetation had shot up and nobody had beaten it down. There were some quiet lanes which upped the pace a bit but there were also some very very muddy bits with highly exuberant young cows.  I was pleased to have my poles even though I didn't actually need to use them. The Paythorne area will not be my favourite and I was pleased to reach the old bridge and be making my way towards Gisburn. The paths added to avoid main road running have improved since we ran the Ribble Way as a team and turning off to Gisburn Park was even better. Bob had again found the perfect stop. It was only about 8.30pm and I was keen to make the most of the light and so did not stop long. Baby bel cheese and Lidl Romeo / Bounty vars would have to do. I was carrying my head torch but would not need it yet. Over 100km done and feeling OK.

Mill Lane near Gisburn

Leaving the van I turned up the driveway of Coppice Farm to meet a huge herd of deer which was a nice treat. 

There must have been 50 in total

A few km later was a herd of very frisky cows- much less of a treat. The ground was wet and muddy but I eventually emerged at Sawley for a bit of road running. It was quiet and I had no issue with traffic. I deviated from the official route slightly here as I did not want to run through a farm yard in the dark and cause upset or spook any farm dogs. Near Grindleton I picked up the Ribble Way and relished easy nav for a while. The quarry and cement works at Chatburn were noisy even at night but otherwise all was deserted. The river side path was easy to follow but very wet and muddy. There were even some sections where the river had burst it's banks. Wider paths near the sculpture park were easier and before long I was at Low Moor and then Eddisford Bridge. Bob was there in the van as promised but for the first time today I was feeling slightly sick and not wanting to eat. Still, there was only a marathon to go and I had eaten well all day.

Leaving Clitheroe

It was easy running even in the dark to Great Mitton and then roads to the Hodder bridges- the 'new' one and the ancient packhorse Cromwell's bridge. Cromwell's army crossed here on their way to the Battle of Preston in 1648. Shortly after this my route left the Ribble Way and climbed to the back of Stonyhurst College so there was more easy track running pretty much all the way to Hurst Green. Having visited and run here often I did not mind not seeing the impressive buildings as it was dark. A track dropped me towards the river and Dinckley bridge and then it all went a bit wrong. I lost the path and did some battle with mud and undergrowth- I was tired and it was dark. Having my poles helped keep me upright in several sections of mud but I still managed one skid and a twisted knee. I relocated on the bigger bridleway and was soon at the bridge in Little Town.  Bob was there but I didn't really want much except to get the job done now.

Near Malham Cove- out of order but too good not to include

The NWW crosses some field paths to Ribchester but the road has pavement and I could not face more bog and mud. Ribchester was deserted as you might expect at 2.30am and I was soon on my way to Hothersall and thinking of all the times I had gone to meet kids doing DoE on paths around here. I kept disturbing wildlife now. I think a fox watched me and then ran off. There were some deer and an owl plus lots of sheep's eyes glowing in the dark. Heading west on paths that cross Alston Lane and Elston Lane was OK but then I saw 'different' eyes and suddenly there was barking. Two dogs had either escaped or been let out alone. I was not impressed. It was not yet light and I had no idea how friendly they might be. Stressed I charged off towards Tun Brook woods and it all went a bit wrong again. I found the gate into the woods and crossed a bridge. OS maps and my instructions were cross it and go straight up the other side. There are two bridges!  After some swearing and battle with mud and undergrowth I retraced my steps to the first bridge and saw that I needed to drop down to the main stream and another bridge. It's probably easy in daylight and with a fully functioning brain but I will go back one day soon and check. Once past the solar farm I was soon on familiar ground and on the easy path above Red Scar wood. I was glad running home meant from here it I knew the way so well. Dropping to Brockholes and the nature reserve there was even more bird life and I met a photographer out at dawn. The Guild Wheel is a good surface Which on a normal run I would not be a fan of) and as I crossed under the A59 to follow the Ribble downstream I knew there was less than 9 miles to go. It was now raining but I didn't really care. I stopped at our van briefly at the Shaws Arms but again wanted little to eat. 

The heaviest of the rain I had in all the journey

It is always a joy to run through Avenham and Miller Parks. I looked up right to Avenham Tower where we once lived, was surprised to see a couple of tents by the river in the park and then started meeting early morning runners. I hope they didn't think I usually run so badly- they of course had no idea where I had started. The official route goes up through the very fine Winckley Square to then finish at the train station. I stayed on the Guild Wheel by the river and had opted to finish at the dock swing bridge where I knew Bob could park easily even in rush hour.  

I can stop at last

I thought about running home- another mile or so on the Guild Wheel but the cycle path along Portway is noisy and smelly so finishing at the dock seemed nicer. 

Job done

 I finished- a bit wet and bedraggled but in one piece and happy at 6.48am. So just under 26hrs (25.53) for the 99 miles/159km and 3294m of climb. 

It was a very short drive home for a shower, fried eggs on bread as always and some sleep for both of us. Bob had managed a few micro naps but had been awake as long as me.

Doing this in the 'proper' direction would have been better for the prevailing wind but it was not really very windy and it was good to be running home and on very easy paths at the end.  I ate well until Clitheroe and was happy with that. I did not change any clothes or footwear and should perhaps have changed socks and checked my feet. Two days later my feet are fine. It would have been better without the previous fortnight of rain but the weather on the day was pretty good. After a sleep we repacked the van and drove to the Lakes for 3 days of big Wainwright walks. Bob completed (and exceeded) his 80 Wainwrights for 80 years. I must admit it was good to have dry feet for almost the entirety of those 3 days and no mud or navigation issues. We were also blessed with beautiful weather. So now I just have the Carlisle to Bowes section to do when I have some spare time. I might have to start at Bowness on Solway to make it about 100 miles though. Thanks to Steve Garrill for the inspiration and the kind gift of his NWW book as an early birthday present.

The 60th Fellsman

 For us the start was exactly the same as last year- climb for four hours and then drive to Threshfield. Put up flags and banners in the sunshine. Catch up with RO friends. Put up display boards, spot prizes, hand over winners prizes and mint cake bars, set out rope mats and dog toys.

Bob then went to help unload the food vans. I was first in the line for registration and soon had Martin, Ian, Mick, Fiona and others to catch up with. Once the staff had the wifi up and going I was used as a registration guinea pig and so was soon inside and warm! I passed quickly through bus tag, disclaimer and on to the infamous kit check. All good and speedy although I believe the queue outside got quite long later and the weather got a bit damp as well as cold.

I went back to our van to eat- bonus of Bob helping in the kitchen is we get to park at the school. Once fed I grabbed a beer, checked Bob was OK, handed over his food and went back into the main hall. Plenty of friends to talk to and I managed to sell rope and so make more money for Mountain Rescue as well as pass out some spot prizes. By 9.30pm I was ready for doing final faffs and getting into bed. Bob knew he would be on a late night and an early start so had said he would sleep in the staff room. I slept quite well despite marshalls in other vans coming back late and getting up early.

It was a chilly start so I put the van heater on as I ate my breakfast. The forecast of a cold dry morning with rain perhaps later made the decision to start in long tights easy. I knew I would be grateful for them early on and later that evening even if I was a tad warm in the middle of the day. Then after one final check of gear I headed off to say bye to Bob, go to the loo and get the 6.30am bus. Not being a circular route means an early start even though race off is 8.30am. There seemed to be more runners than seats on the bus which was a bit unfortunate and I felt sorry for the lady sitting on the stairs being sick. I hope she recovered, started and finished. As we pulled into the car park in Ingleton I spotted a big queue and so shot off to the toilet. When I returned the queue was even longer and we were soon very cold. I was already glad to be wearing my long tights and third layer plus cag. We were already kit checked so it was hard to see what the delay was but I don't suppose they were just trying to annoy us! We inched forward and then inside to warmth where I collected by number, whee watch, tally card and then tracker. Belt and braces but apparently we cannot get rid of the iconic tally. I then moved into the next room and found more friends to chat with and started to warm up. I had not seen Matt N or Brian for ages. Julian was busy sorting out our 'oldies' team when it was announced the start would be delayed by half an hour to cope with the queues.

So by 8.30 we were being herded out into the cold sunny morning on the field. Our first tally clips had been taken. More and more people seem to be opting to start up the steep grassy slope now but I was determined not to get carried away despite the bottle-neck at the gate. Before the tarmac ended we were fairly spread out and then taking slightly different lines on the grassy paths. It is up and up and up to the first CP on Ingleborough so there was plenty of walking as well as some running. 

Stunning morning at CP1 but very chilly

My neighbours marshall this first CP and were looking pretty frozen as we arrived. I debated trying the direct line due north and down the grass but could not see anybody going that way and didn't think it wise to experiment. The rock steps and slabs were drier than often so I made reasonable time but it is apparently a quicker line.

By the time we arrived at the Hill Inn I was confused. Neil was ahead of me moving fast so was I being slow? But Claire was with me so was I too fast? In the end there was nothing to do except stick with what felt comfortable and do my own thing. A cheery voice shouted hello as I left the road- Andy N was marshalling the 3Ps race. I trotted on the best I could aiming to keep Neil and the Morts within talking distance. It was good to leave the main tourist path and take the grassy ramp up to the ridge. I am always surprised how long it takes to get to the summit but as usual there was a stream of faster runners coming down to distract me. The summit CP was the usual cold and windy spot- not a place to linger. I was cautious over the rocky path and Cat pulled ahead. Once on the grass I was more comfortable about speed and seemed to fly down to Kingsdale. The CP was quite busy so I grabbed some Voom and filled my water. I tried eating on the climb but it was a struggle. I sipped mountain fuel but couldn't manage more than a couple of mouthfuls of Voom bar. It had an interesting red dye effect on my hands though! The Voom mint cake like stuff went down more easily but I don't think I could stomach much of it in one go. The climb up to Gragareth ridge is one of the steepest on the route and I took a couple of brief breathers. I like the run out to the two cheeriest marshalls ever and the views were amazing. I got led onto a new to me trod on the return loop- shorter but a little damper. The ridge goes on and on towards Great Coum on mostly nice grassy paths. I missed my usual short cut near the end but was running with Claire as we left the CP and began the drop to Flinters Gill. The track/trod by the wall was as wet as usual but we missed the scree easily. I really dislike the rocky path as it drops to Dent so experimented in the field but think I cut back a little sooner than necessary. The young man who usually points the way was missing due to exam revision but I found the path OK and was soon on the campsite. 

Dent = hippies with fruit, tea and cheese sauasage rolls

The guys at this CP always make me smile and I refueled on melon and cheese roll. Claire was still with me for now but soon pulled ahead as we trotted along the tarmac. I found I was running with Cat and we chatted a bit with me keeping her on course before she too pulled ahead a little on the climb over the end of Whernside. The weather was warmer now but I was not too uncomfortable in my long tights and was just happy that it was dry and sunny.

Stonehouse CP ready for action

I know this section well and soon found the trod off the main path and then the best of the pretty non existent trods through the bog below Blea Moor. It was here that I ended up with Bill J again, something that is becoming a regular thing on this race. We jogged and chatted all the way to Stonehouse. I was pleased to find most of the paths were drier than usual and the geese in the farm yard had disappeared. Stonehouse meant fancy dress, a kit check and food. I managed a small portion of pasta and a piece of cake before starting the plod up Artengill Beck. 

Not mine sadly- I would have had the steam train

I had opted to use my old KIMM sack not my race vest and this was the first of many times I regretted this as there was no easy access to my phone so I missed the steam train going over the viaduct above me. I did get my poles out and this seemed to help me get into a steady rythmn and almost kept up with Bill. As we crossed the stile for Great Knoutberry it was interesting to see who was about 15 minutes or so ahead as they headed back down the hill. Just before the top there was a brief spell of hail but pleasingly it didn't last. I made good time down the grassy paths, one of my favourite bits, and was soon ahead of Bill and running with Cat again. Redshaw was soon in sight and I pointed out the way. I marshalled here once and so know the team. Today I grabbed a cup of tea, banana and a small sandwich and watched as Cat who didn't stop disappeared up hill.  The path to Snaizeholme was damp but not dreadful and the CP was in sunshine. I felt I was struggling a bit so concentrated on not letting the gap to Cat and the other runners get any larger.  Last year Matt N met me here and encouraged me to run. He was racing this year but the memory actually had the same effect and I was soon on Dodd Fell. The sky was now starting to look more evil and as I crossed the wall and started on the final path to Fleet Moss it started to rain. By the time I reached the CP I was chilly and thinking this was the start of the predicted bad weather I added a layer and then my over trousers. I managed a little food and chatted to Ken who was bailing here. I knew a couple of runners had just left and so headed out and used their backs to pull me all the way down Langstrothdale. The rain had now stopped and I was feeling like a boil in the bag meal with sweat running down my body. I prayed I would be cooler once I started the climb back onto the moor. I like the Dales Way path and we were soon in Yockenthwaite (love the names here)and heading onto Chapel Moor. This is the 'new' bit and there is no obvious trod yet or perhaps people just take a multitude of different lines. Interestingly the erratum OS sheet provided by the race does not show a patch of fences and gates which for me are key to getting the correct line. It is a long long pull up over rough ground but I knew the stone wall would eventually come into sight and then behind the top corner would be the CP tent. Again I struggled to get my 'whee' to whee and the delays were becoming frustrating.  Next stop was the slightly adjusted Hells Gap CP and some easier running before the even easier drop to Cray. The rain seemed to have gone but I could see mist beginning to shroud the top of Buckden Pike. I did manage a little food at Cray but not much. I set out alone towards the hill and then stupidly let myself be persuaded to try the right-hand side of the stream again. We still got to the tourist path but I think I prefer my usual way. The mist was getting thicker and I was now alone again. I hoped to see Joe at the top but the clipper was held by a young couple. The massive flag stones led the way south and I put my torch on to avoid the trip hazards. The flag stones now extend all the way to the War memorial stile. Then it all changes in a very bad way. Usually I veer left a bit away from the wall and so avoid the worst bogs. Today on my own in the dark and thick mist I stayed near the wall to make sure I didn't miss the gate. Sadly this meant awful bogs and before long I fell thigh deep into one. I was so grateful to have my poles and even more relieved when I got out with both shoes still attached to my feet. Ironically not long after the gate I ended up in a group of six plodding our boggy way to the Top Mere CP.  

A loose group of us made our way to Park Rash and the CP by the road. I tried to eat again but was now really struggling and thought I might be sick. I left the CP alone and slightly disorientated. I cut right too early which was not a disaster as I could follow the wall but it was slightly longer and steeper.  Just before the ridge top and CP other runners appeared and we reached the CP together. Again no whee from several of us!  It was good to run off Great Whernside together and share the joy of spot the trod and avoid the bog! We split up before Capplestone Gate but arrived at the CP together. I hoped to stick with Martin T here and it worked for a while but he was stronger as we neared Yarnbury and was soon out of sight. This last CP is always a welcome sight. There was no need for food and I felt I ran more of the tarmac even if I could not keep up with Martin. Second year in a row where I have lost the V60 trophy by 4 minutes or so after running with the man for a few miles! Grassington was almost silent as I jogged down the hills and over the bridge before the final pull up to the school at Threshfield.  16 hrs 34 so a little slower than last year but not a PW. I think 8th F, 2nd V60, 1st FV60 and my tenth Fellsman run.

Finished!

Bob met me at the finish desk and once I had collected my snood and medal he fetched me tea. I knew I should eat and so sat in the hall eating chilli and drinking yet more tea with rhubarb pie and custard. The body bus arrived as I finished and so I had a chat with Nicky who had bailed at Cray. She will be back to complete next year. 

The chairs had no back support

hil and Claire were showered and fed and soon headed off to bed. It wasn't long before I slowly wandered back to our van. I struggled to sleep at first but by 8ish was up and back for breakfast. 

Rather more climb than they advertised

There were some great runs from Runfurther runners- Phil in 4th, Lawrence 10th, Claire 3rd F. Winning man was Kim C in 11.07 and Emma was 1st F in 11.36. 

We managed to get the oldies team prize again and so I left with a bag full of Timothy Taylor goodies.

After the prize giving I took down flags and banners. Took display boards etc back to the van. I was thrilled to find I had made £45 for Mountain Rescue from mat sales and dog toys. I then went to find Bob who was still working hard in the kitchen with Jean and Tom. He had been on the go for most of 40 hours with little sleep and just a short bike ride in a quieter interval. 

Washing up reward

I washed up, dried up and cleaned for a few hours before we made our excuses and drove home. A fairly exhausting weekend but good to support such a great event.

Calderdale Hike

 The third race in the Runfurther series this this year and a 'new' route for the Hike with Long, medium and short options. We were back in the cricket club for the day and the promise of chip timing, more food at CPs again and better food at the end! 

As usual we drove across the night before and put up flags and banners. It was quiet, apart from a spell where the police helicopter responded to a stabbing nearby, and I slept well. Bob had decided to do the 'short' walk and so as we were up early I took the boards, mint cake and prizes across to the hall. Gradually runners started to appear and there was much discussion about possible routes to take at various points around the course. It is point to point so you get to chose your route between CP and the suggested route is not always the best for speed. Despite my recce I was still undecided about a couple of sections but confident enough to know what to expect and a vague idea of the route as a whole. After a tough time at H55 I was nervous and anxious about how well I could do. When Phil told me Claire was ill and a DNS I was cheered by the thought my Runfurther points might not be so bad but then Sarah appeared- she had a late entry. Ah well. On the plus side she had no idea where she was going.

The forecast was very mixed and uncertain with a bit of everything predicted at some point. It wasn't going to be cold though. The race began at 9am with it's usual hilarious split! Most runners going down the driveway, those in the know taking the sneaky back path and others standing bemused and wandering what to do. Within minutes another choice saw some veer right onto the land and then fields of the suggested route whilst many of us stayed left and on lanes for longer. I made a determined effort to reign in my speed but knew the flog up Luddenden would help slow me anyway. Here again there were several options and I was confident that mine was faster and easier underfoot. It proved to be so as I got ahead of Phil again and avoided congestion on a steep narrow muddy path.

Glad to be going up not down these

It was nice to leave the tarmac and head over fields towards the golf course and then Ogden Water.  Lots of runners were now being passed. The CP in the car park was busy but we soon left the crowds and headed up onto the moor again. Footpath knowledge again helped me keep up with the 'twin men in shorts' and also Phil who kept appearing from my left. In fairness he had done no recce, doesn't know the area and was relying on reading a paper map. Once on Hambledon Lane they shot ahead only for me to catch them as the dithered at the start of the conduit path. They all headed down onto the 'suggested' route but I knew it to be a muddy mess with deep puddles despite what the OS map suggested. I opted for the conduit- flat, mostly dry and easy running. I got to the CP on the road at the same time as the 'twins' but missed Dave W taking photos. 

Winners

A short road section and a track led to another conduit- again Phil appeared from my left. It was the last I would see of him as easier nav let him put his speed to use. 

More and more walkers were now being caught, including Andy who helped us set up the new Runfurther. From Top of Stairs I was back on familiar trails and Haworth Hobble route and the CP at Grain Water Bridge soon appeared. The 'twins' were just ahead but Phil was gone. 

Phil and map

We were soon off the moor and heading to Walshaw before the start of the long long land westwards. I had been dreading this but actually managed to run pretty much all of it and stayed with the 'twins'. We were so busy concentrating on catching walkers ahead that all three of us missed the next CP as it was just off route. Apparently there was a notice but we thing it was hidden by a group of mountain bikers at the gate.

The 'twins in shorts' I saw a fair bit of them

The short road section up to Widdop Reservoir was soon over and we were trotting across the dam. The guys pulled ahead slightly here and it stayed that way all along Gorple track/ Pennine Bridleway. They were too far ahead for me to shout when they stuck to the suggested route. I took the route Kevin had suggested and it was better- all downhill and all on very good track. 

Widdop in the sun on my recce

At Hurstwood car park I confessed to having missed the last CP and asked if the guys had been through. No, they were some way behind and I never saw them again. I stuck to the suggested route despite the step slightly overgrown path to the track and then it was easy running to Long Causeway. The road section here is never great but a surprise CP with food boosted me before the nasty muddy drop and climb to Mount Cross Lane. The next section was Hobble route. The mud near the golf course was not as bad as I expected and after Cross Stones we stayed on lanes heading east before the drop to the canal. Here I was caught by Jonathon and this proved a real blessing as we pulled each other all the way to the finish.

Big thanks for making me try/run

I had promised myself that at this CP I would judge which route to take. Adam and Kevin both said the canal was only about half a mile longer. Provided I could run/jog and so not be too bored I would go that way. It was less interesting than up over the moors but had to be faster. I think the two guys at the CP were laying bets on who would go which way! It was an effort but there was no real excuse not to run and before long the outskirts of Hebden appeared along with crowds of tourists. 

You can always see it but at least we were not going up there today

Local knowledge soon gained us distance as we diverted off the canal, through the park and onto paths by the river and railway before the streets of Mytholmroyd. We were both starting to flag now and slowed to eat. A loose pact of stay together and make the other keep running emerged as we started along the rail-side path to reach the final CP at Brearley. From here it was only about 5km, first long more rail-side path and then on steeper and steeper lanes up to the finish at Beechwood. 

Having a hilltop venue means it always a long steep climb to the finish and you can see the church for miles. We concentrated on picking off walkers and not slowing down too much. I had thought we might just break the 7 hour barrier but it was not to be.  Jonothan pulled ahead on the last section of lane and shot to the right of the church before I could shout No. I went left and back in through the small path, just beating him to the finish.

In Claire's absence I had managed to be first female in 7hrs exactly and 6th overall.  I will never be as close to Phil ever again! I was tired but happy. All day I had been running and waiting for Sarah to catch me as she had on H55. I really pushed to prevent this but I needn't have worried- she had made a serious nav error and was a long way back.  Lesson learned- start more slowly!! A good day out with just two bursts of drizzle- except for the later runners who had rain. Bob had already finished and I sat chatting and refuelling with him, Phil, Francis, Ian and then Dave L and Pete C. 

The timing seemed to have worked well for the race and the food was certainly back to the  old standard with the food at the finish especially great. I hope they get more entries again next year as I suspect the numbers are still a bit down on their peak. It is a great set up and I like that the route changes every few years.

More and more friends appeared and once the rain stopped Bob and I went out to take down flags and banners. Nick was still eating so we transferred stuff to his car and said our goodbyes.

Hardmoors 55

 I love Hardmoors and had done this race twice before but not for a very long time. I guess that I knew after a decade I should expect to be slower but how much of a struggle and how slow came as a shock. I guess.... fail to prepare= prepare to fail. We have been away skiing for a fortnight and then mostly climbing in Spain. Not really any real running to speak of although I did fit in a few power hikes with a bit of running.

As usual we drove across on Friday (after almost 4 hrs climbing) and soon had the flags and banners up. I slept quite well and was up and registered before 7am when I guessed the coaches might arrive.  Nerves before the race often trouble my guts but the number of toilet trips this morning was something else. In between I caught up with so many friends that I had not seen for a while. The forecast was dry buy a strong cold wind.  I thought I prefer dry so OK... I wasn't so sure on the tops later!

By 8am we had marched up onto the old railway line and then had to wait as the loo queue had not ended.

It was decidedly chilly standing about but I knew I would soon warm up on the fast flat run and then the initial climb up the High Nab. I set off fairly fast (too fast I later found) but felt OK. I should have realised that if I was ahead of TC something was wrong.

I was still going well at Rosebury Topping. It was baltic on the top and not a place to linger. The stone path is full of trip hazards and I made my way carefully down the trods to the side of the main path.

I know one is on the top but the change in posture is frightening

 Nice running led us along the moor and then down to the Captain Cook car Park. The pull up from here didn't seem too bad but by the top I was starting to struggle. Even on the tarmac drop to Kildale my legs were starting to complain. I has over-cooked it too early on and would now pay the price.

Rosebury- an iconic top

I grabbed cake in the village hall and plodded up the lane and onto the big track across the moor. I was struggling to eat and felt lacking in energy. I was super slow going up Ingelby Moor and towards Blowith. The wind was sapping what little energy I had and I was reduced to a walk. Hell, this is going to be a long day out if I am walking already! Loads of runners seemed to pass me and this deflated me even more. My head was in a bad place and I felt useless. As I struggled up to the CP and marshalls at Hasty Bank I really thought about a DNF. I had a short sit in a chair, couldn't face food as my stomach was cramping. 

The next section is beautiful over the Three Sisters. True is has some brutal ups and downs plus not many of us are fans of those rock step paths and the fear of tripping. I somehow persuaded myself to try to get to Lord Stones. I started to make better time and fewer runners passed me. It was cold in the wind but not too awful. The descents were now an issue for me and both shins were screaming. The poles helped, a bit. I tried to distract myself with memories... of Jon and Shirley's wedding run, of the 2010 H55 when I was close to hypothermic and got dragged to a car to add layers and have a hot cup of tea and of the H200 which had this as it's final section.

By Lord Stones I was still struggling but in a better frame of mind and managing to run bits. I used those around me to pull me on and gave myself a stiff silent talking to..... You wanted to do this, we drove a long way, you are being soft, stop moaning and enjoy it. My left hip, glute and groin were not happy and my stomach was awful but there was no reason to stop. Woods with easier paths and then a nice track made it easier to run/jog and reach Osmotherly.  Just as well as my right eye was suffering from wind blindness and totally clouded over and milky. Luckily my left eye with the contact lens seemed to have been protected. At least one runner had to pull out blind. Mono vision meant a lack of depth to my vision but at least I could see.

The CP here was busy but the staff were great. A cup of tea, rice pudding... anything that would slide down. I tried crisps but couldn't manage them and the slice of pizza ended up on the pavement as I left the village. Starting to run on empty now. Two young women had left the CP with me and I worked hard at not letting them get ahead on the up and up to Square Corner. They started to pull away a bit over Black Hambledon but I kept them in site all the way to Paradise Farm. Somewhere along here I met Garry and it was good to chat and push each other to run a bit. Things hurt but all the walking had allowed me some recovery from my crazy start. By now all those around me also seemed to be suffering and I didn't feel so bad.

Before long we reached the top of Sutton Bank and were shepherded across the road and onto the path towards White Horse. This starts well but the drop off the escarpment is horrid on muddy slippy limestone. Time for some caution. The CP took a while to appear and I couldn't decide what to eat. So far I had managed a flapjack bar, a gel, a Bounty, the rice pud, a slice of cake and nothing else all day.  I told myself to ask for sausage and soup but I just couldn't do it. It would take me ages to force it down and would likely reappear again anyway. Even the tea was a struggle so I gave up and headed for the infamous steps. I had now actually overtaken a couple of runners.

I had hoped not to be too far outside my time from 2014 which was 10hrs 23.  The hours of slow walking put paid to that so I readjusted and aimed for 11hrs 30. Even that was now starting to look unlikely. I tried to push on on the easy and often downhill tracks around Cold Kirby and di make reasonable progress. Too little too late but I was determined to do what I could. I stopped to put my head torch on- I could manage without it for now but would need it in the woods. Another nasty path dropped me to the River Rye and suddenly my torch started misbehaving. The thought of it going out now was almost comical after the day I was having. I had checked it was fully charged and so could not understand it. I fussed a bit and tried to turn it onto a dimmer setting to conserve the battery. Fearing total failure did at least make me try to run the the 3 guys that were around at this point as no torch in the woods would be a real disaster. I was on my own in the woods above Duncombe Park but knew they would end soon. I was now hoping to break 12 hrs and even that was not a certainty. There was only 3km to go and it was frustrating not to run but in the gloom of my light I didn't trust not to turn an ankle until I hit the Cleveland Way statue and the tarmac. I jogged through the village and up Braxton Lane to the finish. 

Not the day I had hoped for. 12 hrs 11 . I finished in a mess. Everything hurt, my stomach was still cramping and even a cup of tea set me in urgent need of the toilets. I was in a better state at the end of the H200 than this. 

Not dead but close

Any food was out of the question. I just wanted to lie down- so I did. After a while I recovered enough to have a cup of tea and a small toasted sandwich. At the prize giving I was surprised to find I was 1st FV50 abd so 1st FV60 too.  I also now have the record for both these age classes (which just goes to show they do not get many fast older female runners). 

It was a day of humility, lessons learned and grim determination. (don't eat fridge left overs that might be dodgy... suspect this gave me mild food poisoning. Plus seem to have a throat infection.) And all this whilst Jasmin was showing what real effort and determination look like!

Bob had been a star.. moving the flags and banners from start to finish as well as fitting in his own walk having decided it was too cold and windy to cycle. He had also bought beer and food but I couldn't face these. I hoped to wait for the next Runfurther runners but just wanted my bed. Bob took down the flags etc and we were asleep before midnight having decided to stay and drive home on Sunday.

All 10 Runfurther members finished and Sarah Challans and Any Collier had great runs.

Pendle Way in a Day

 First race in the Runfurther series again and I know the route pretty well now. We have had all sorts of weather for it but that was not my main worry this year. I have barely run since the Bowland Ultra except for a couple of Night Orienteering events where nav and dark force me to slow down. I also played street O catch up a fortnight ago and now regret bothering. Short sharp runs and on tarmac don't suit me and I upset a niggle in my glute and hip on the Monday. A second run on the Wednesday was an even worse idea- I even started walking back to the pub part way through before trying to tough it out. Lots of climbing followed but no running and I could still feel it. Annoyingly, or predictably, those two runs will be discards with my worst points. At least the Night O went well and I seem to have won the FVet/ over 50 North West League.

I told myself that the forecast looked OK and that I needed to go to Pendle with the prizes, flags etc anyway. I managed to persuade Bob that he wanted a walk there and so we went on Friday evening. This allowed me to put up flags and banners, hand mint cake and prizes to Jamie the RO and to set up the display boards. A lie in would be possible on Saturday. Despite the forecast it was crazy windy all night and I kept being woken by the wind in the trees and worrying how the flags were standing up to it. The lie in meant I missed the walkers start at 7am and so did not see Andy but shortly afterwards I went to register. Kit check was swift and I concentrated on handing out spot prizes and left overs from last years prize giving. Concerned about how cold and wet we got two years ago I had opted for thicker tights and two base layers. A quick check outside at 7.45 and I found it was still windy and raining. I changed into my heavier cag. Mistakes.. I was far too hot for most of the journey.

We gathered outside for the briefing and at 8am prompt we were off. I knew I would not beat Kat or Claire and so tried not to race off too fast even though the first kilometer or so is flat.  The woods at Whitehough were as boggy as usual and I was cautious on the drop to Roughlee having promised I would not injury myself and upset our holiday plans. By Barrowford and the original start venue I was a bit alarmed to see Claire just ahead but assumed I would drop back once we started climbing a bit. A few guys overtook me in the next few miles as I walked some short sections to try to ease my glute/hip. This included Glen- the oldest racer by about a year. Before Weets we caught up with the first walkers and the day now had blue skies and great views. Martin danced by- he always looks so light and nimble and then I caught Claire. She was suffering and likely to pull out at the marshall check in Barnoldswick. Much of the next section was run with three guys and trying to keep with them helped my speed but not my bum. 

Barnoldswick to Earby is fairly quick running and includes my least favourite canal section. My three friends pulled ahead a bit but coming off Kelbrook Moor we were back together again and we had been joined by man with poles (Jonathon?) and Tod man Gaz. Knowing the route on these sections of multiple paths and farm tracks really helps and pole man was very grateful. At the CP in Kelbrook I grabbed a cake and some sweets but still had plenty of my own food left too.  The path through to Wycoller was less muddy than usual and I managed to run fairly well but then opted to eat crisps and power walk with the odd jog up the big track and onto the route shared by Pendle Way, Bronte Way and Pennine Bridleway. 

I was now picking off walkers and those on the shorter route which helped keep me motivated to run and stomp. Pole man and Tod man were slightly ahead but we had dropped the three guys. A good track led to Coldwell but the farm track before Catlow was as bad as always with deep mud. At the ford the river was quite high and leaving the last stepping stone for the cobbles of the ford I slipped. No harm done except the weird muscle pop out thing near my ribs. I prayed that a fast walk up the very steep lane would allow it to settle and it did. The CP had moved to a tiny church room in Southfield. I topped up water and grabbed a little to eat before jogging down the track to the reservoir.  Another predictably muddy section led up to the main road and then more pleasant paths leading to Reedly. Downhill roads here let me run again before the broken and submerged duckboards by Pendle Water. A broken bridge meant a diversion next- it wasn't exciting being on a pavement but was certainly easier  than the usual path.  Up and up to the main road at Fence and then along to Higham - it felt longer than 4km. In the CP I grabbed a donut and cup of tea. I was tired and my glute was sore but the end was in sight. Up the boggy fields to the lane and then a short pleasant section before the very boggy track to Bull Hole.

Walkers ahead pulled me into Newchurch and another group was caught as we climbed to Fell Wood. Poleman was still with me and Tod man too, although he ran harder to Pendle trig point. Knowing the trod around the rim saved me a little time and knowing the runners trod near the awful stone steps save me trip hazards and fear of falling. I was hoping to beat 9hrs 10 but decided it wasn't worth risking all at this stage so ran with caution until the tarmac of the village. 

9hrs 12 was not so bad even if it was almost an hour behind Kat who was first F. I was 2nd F, 1st FV and 3V.  About 15 mins slower than last year but quicker than the other two and back without needing a head torch.

Bob came to meet me and I recovered with lentil dahl, beef stew and cups of tea. All the Runfurther stuff was collected together (thanks Bob) and it was a joy to do it in the dry this time. We saved the beer until we got home. Not a bad day out and a good start to the Runfurther series.