End of summer update

 So our trip abroad was a bit later than usual even though I did not stay to do the Beacons race in Wales.  We suddenly realised all our maps and French info was locked in a house in Leeds whilst our son was away in Scotland! (our bad planning). Getting into France was easy! We opted for the tunnel so that we could stay safe in the van and apart from showing that we were double vaccinated that was it.

As you might expect in August the weather was superb- hot, dry and sunny. We had almost a fortnight of rock climbing and via feratta before heading down to the Pyrenees for one of my favourite races- The Grand Raid de Pyrenees. It wasn't quite as crazy hot as last year and that meant more hours on the crag before we ran out of water. It didn't all go smoothly... after 30 years of climbing together I took my first significant fall. No helmet and because we don't climb crazy hard overhangs lots of rock in the way.  I tipped, bashed all my limbs and my head. Then with the blood flowing nicely we realised that the fall had caused the rope to get caught in a tiny crack. Twenty minutes later I had to admit it was stuck. Fortunately there was enough spare rope for me to pull up extra, re-tie and be lowered off. Heaven knows what we would have done with a shorter rope or if I had been unconscious. Having to sort all this kept me focused and so no tears. Bob then went back to the van for a knife to cut the rope. That will teach me to push my standard, be brave and to climb well beyond my last clip. Not ideal preparation for a long ultra but no real harm done either.

The GRP now has a whole range of races and I had been tempted to enter the 220km as when I last did this it was cut short by bad weather.  Sanity had prevailed though and as the TOR was to follow shortly after I stuck with the 164km. It is a route I mostly know although they tweak it slightly from year to year and with an early morning start only involves one night out for me. Covid issues meant uploading stuff to Apps but once this was done it was painless. 

Doing it wasn't painless so thanks to Mark S for his patience and guidance! We arrived in the village only a day or so before the race this year but as I sat in the square watching the bunting etc go up several people charged across to welcome me back- the benefit of a tiny village and small race set up. 

Race day means an early start but I knew it would not be long before the sun was up. I opted to start in short shorts as it was warm even before dawn. The first mile or so is fast and flat through the lanes to Vignec and the climb from here was bound to warm me up. 

At this point  know there were at least 5 women in front of me but experience told me to bide my time. Chasing now would just wreck me for later. If they could keep it up then good for them. As we left la Cabanne to climb towards the Col de Portet the sunrise was stunning. 

Enough for me to wish that I had not buried my phone deep in my sack. New route this year so we did not drop to Merlans but took a lovely path above it and back onto the old route through the Neouville towards Cabane de Bastan. 

Then instead of  a long drop north we dropped a bit only to turn west and climb on relatively pathless grass to drop into La Monje from above. As usual there were plenty of crowds here and as I stopped to eat and fill up with water I found Albert. He hadn't quite been timed out on the 220km but would have been if he continued up towards Pic du Midi. Shame for him after a tough night. This year I was more prepared for the tough climb out of the ski resort. It is not quite as nice as the old route from the east and there are fewer opportunities to stop in streams but I was up at Col de Sencours before long and realising that I was possibly now in 3rd place. The trudge up Pic du Midi is tough but I had taken some snacks and made good time. I also tried to spot female runners coming down and there were none for ages plus one sat at the top with her husband. 

Back at the Col after a nice trot down I took more snacks before the easy run to the lake and the turn off to Lac Bleu. Bits are very runnable but I was cautious over the rocks. 

I was now running with another woman and think we were 2nd and 3rd but not 100% sure. Two more cols in the heat and we were on our way to Hautacam and the next good CP. 

I love the emptiness of this section but was very jealous of the guy swimming down in Lac d'Aouda.I had collected more water at the cabane in the pastures and soaked my buff in some streams. Mountain Fuel powder in my water seemed to be going down well as were crisps. At Hautacam I was greeted by old friends- a couple the same age as Bob and I always run this CP. It was in a tent this year not the ski room but without the cold rain of last time I was happy to eat, refill and go. Apart from a couple of short boggy sections that never quite dry out this next section is easy and mostly downhill all the way to Pierrefitte and the first Life Base where we see our drop bags. I washed my feet and decided to get them taped as some hot spots were developing. It took time but hoped it would be worth it in the long run and a short rest was needed anyway. I struggled to eat much but loved the rice pudding pots they introduced this year and also had my chocolate milk. The foot taping was nearly a disaster as bending forward to take my socks off triggered my' not a hernia'. I had to hide my discomfort and stretch to ease it. I wasn't going to be pulled from the race by anxious medics. It was still light when I left; always a bonus. A quick chat with the marshal, who recognised me from previous years, at the out and back point and then it was a gradual climb back towards the mountains and cabane de Conques where it suddenly gets steeper. Through another Col and it was down towards Cauterets. At some stage here it got dark. I tried to eat but didn't manage as much as I would have liked and decided a short lie down on the floor was required. No real sleep but I set off again slightly refreshed. The glow worms along the path through the forest were amazing and although it is relentlessly up the path is wide and well graded until you leave the forest. We arrived at the next CP slightly confused as it was 'extra' and it was here I met 2nd F again. This was the only point I got chilly and in the end had to put a layer and my cag on. Sat outside in the dark in the breeze and feeling too sick to eat didn't help. There seemed no point hanging around so I was soon off and on steeper ground, including breaking through avalanche fences on the ridge before the drop to the tiny ski station at Aulian. No Scouts and blaring music this year. Instead a rather limited space and strict marshalls who wanted to serve us. No offer of pancakes this year. Day break always helps and by Luz it was light and I was meeting some 220km runners. This Life Base was so crowded and hot inside that I never even asked for my drop bag- a mistake as I missed my custard. I knew I was tired because when my chip wouldn't register and I was asked to go out/come in/go out/come in I could feel my patience evaporating rapidly. In the end I sat out the back on cool concrete and checked my feet and ate a little. Leaving here I was alone but soon hooked up with some other runners including a french guy who had lived in the states and a Czech. We stayed together most of the way to Tournaboup. 

There were no massive climbs but the route does deceive you. There is a big loop up a valley to cross and contour along the other side and then it seems to go for ever before dropping to Barrages only to then climb steeply and over a spur before the final drop to the CP. It was HOT. I made one silly error not spotting a flag but luckily it was only a few hundred metres down a path and then near Barrages we were very anxious as the flags seemed to have us turning back on ourselves. It's nice to have a way-marked course but I never entirely trust that all the flags will be there and they will not have been tampered with. They were in fact perfect, I just didn't want to believe where they were going. my promised ice cream never happened as the snack bars were off route and the restaurant next to the CP only wanted to serve full tables big meals. Disappointed I returned to the CP and tried to eat the warm dry food. 

The next section climbs back into the wilds of the Neouville and is beautiful. The tourists  in the ski valley are soon left behind and the path gets wilder as it climbs towards but not all the way to Cabanne Coubous. I had many many stops along here- to rest, to pick billberries and to soak my buff. I knew I was wasting time but just could not make myself go faster. Despite being fairly brown after weeks in the sun it was scorching the back of my legs all the way. There were now 80km runners arriving, you could tell by their speed long before you could see the colour of their numbers. At Cabanne d'Aygues I was horrified to find there was just warm soup, biscuits etc.  After the climb towards Merlans I was surprised to see a marshal - it was to tell us to be careful in a small boggy section? (clearly he has never been to Lancashire). I hesitated on the run in to Merlans as I felt a bit sick and did not want to decorate their decking. Within seconds a medic was at my side checking I was OK. A small snack and I was on my way back up to the Col de Portet, crowds and enormous sheep. The end is now in sight! Running out onto the big ridge that extends east I was cautious of the narrow paths but sped up as it opened out. The flags had been eaten by cows and the mist was down but I knew my way. Some nice running before the 'fell' like drop through the bracken towards Soulan. I think I am getting slow and cautious on descents but this has no rocks and I love it and bombed past a couple where the husband was getting very frustrated at his wife's slow progress. I actually over took people in the next couple of km and ran faster than I thought I would on the wet greasy paths down to Vignec. I could now smell the finish, was pretty sure I was 2nd F and dared to hope I could beat 39 hours. I flew through Vignec, had a brief pause on the corner at the campsite before another race down the road to the river. here the steps were a real obstacle for me and my tired quads but then there was just the riverside path. In the daylight the few rock trip hazards were easy to spot and so many people were cheering us on. Another slight pause at the tiny climb to the bridge and then I was off. 

Bob tried to stop me on the run in but I knew time was tight. I stormed the red carpet and then tried not to collapse. 

Yes- 2nd overall and two minutes or so inside the 39 hours. There was lots of cheering on the tannoy ( I am known here now) but some whispers of Is she really 60? At last I had a kiss for Bob. I collected my hoody and went to take shoes and socks off before the ritual leg bath in the village fountain with a beer.  

Mark S was horrified at the state of my toes but actually my feet were not bad and no real blisters.

Eventually I braved the walk to the van and then back to the navette for a shower at a nearby campsite. I was a struggle but well worth it. I ate a bit but didn't really want a big meal just a rest. Once my hips had settled down I slept well and so missed Michelle finishing.

Prize Giving was the usual crowds in the village square. Slightly smaller then most years as some of the other shorter races had done their prize giving straight after the races to reduce numbers and help Covid rules. More beer and a trip to the podium. 

There was a good haul of prizes as usual- lots of food from local companies, a spa voucher and enough Aux Vieux Campeur vouchers to buy a pair of trail shoes. 

The final buffet was reduced to a take away affair but it was good food and wine and we had a picnic in the sun by the van. Thank you GRP- the rice pudding pots were amazing and who could fail to be pleased by a new sponsor being beer! Hope my memories are correct- its a few weeks ago now and since then I have climbed, via ferattaered and done an even longer race.

Lakeland 100

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

Marc at the prize-giving later

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

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

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

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

My error

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

The paths look so easy in daylight

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

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

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

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

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

More friends waiting

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

Fusedale in the daylight but not race day

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

There was a third egg too

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Nav4 Pennine 39

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Photo Nick Ham

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

Photo Nick Ham

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

Photo Nick Ham

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

Photo Nick Ham

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

From 2019 Gregs Hut

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

2019 The track to Garrigill

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

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

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

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

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