My 11th Fellsman

It has been dry, drier than ever and for ages so the ground underfoot was going to be the best it could be in terms of lack of bog and firmness. Maybe tougher for the feet in some ways but less energy sapping I was hoping. The forecast was also looking promising- not wall to wall sunshine and possibly some light rain at some point but mostly dry. This led me to debate which race vest/sack to use and I changed my mind several times in the preceeding week- if I had still been working I just would not have had the time! In the end I overpacked and used my trusty old KIMM sack. I have used it before and know it works plus it is roomy enough to pull things in and out without needing a flat table to repack all items.

Bob and I drove over to Threshfield after our usual Friday indoor climbing . We were soon parked up and all the flags and banners were up quickly. It is no big hassle when the weather is kind. The display boards were up and I had laid out lots of rope mats and dog toys in the hope of raising some funds for Mountain Rescue.  Bob was involved with kit check but we returned to the van for a meal first. 

Thanks to all our sponsors

There was a minor change to registration with much of the queue being inside the school in case of bad weather. It was speedier than last year but I know some people queued for some time and wish now that I had volunteered to kit check too. 

Nick and his choice of the now compulsory goggles

I chatted with friends- some doing the Fellsman and others doing the Dart (new half option).Soon after 9pm I was back in the van having a last minute faff and then laying stuff out for the morning before getting an early night. I woke briefly when Bob returned at 10.20 but was soon asleep again.

Lots of spot prizes as usual

I always beat my alarm clock at races so before 5.30 I was up and dressed. Bob did know what his tasks might be and so got up too. It seems an early start for an 8.30 race but I was keen to make time for breakfast, toilet visits and being in plenty of time for the last bus which would leave at 6.30am.  It's a pleasant journey and I had a seat at the front and so did not feel nauseous.  In Ingleton the queue was much better this year and we were soon inside collecting numbers to be recorded by pen and paper at each CP, woop woop watches for the Fell tracker system, tally cards and finally trackers. If technology moves on and there is some yet to be thought of improvement I am sure the Fellsman will add it in- but apparently they will not remove the Tally!

Curlew did not run the Fellsman

Once in the main hall I met up with Charles and then Albert and Dave plus Mark S. Matt N appeared and many other friends that I only see at certain races. Julian was collecting names for an Oldies Team as usual.

Start field and a minutes silence for Bandy

Well before 8.30 we started to move out onto the playing fields where we met a massive Curlew. It was being worn by a walker completing a hike through the Dales for charity and to raise awareness of the ground nesting birds. IN the end I had decided to run in my longest 3/4s even though it meant carrying some longs. I felt it might be too chilly for real shorts and hate having to change at dusk. I had packed my bigger cag which was a mistake as it stayed in my sack the whole time. Two long sleeve base layers was all I used all day this year. No need for the gloves, waterproof over mitts or spare thicker mitts.  The start is always a mad dash, especially now the majority leave via the steep bank and tiny gate. As we left the road at the edge of town there were still people racing for position. I tried to settle into what would be a reasonable pace for me and kept up the internal chant of "it's a long way yet just wait, plod on". Despite this I always emerge onto the Ingleborough Summit feeling things have been too fast. Our friends and neighbours were manning the CP as usual and had many many layers on in the chilly breeze up there. 

I had toyed with the idea of checking out the more direct grass descent as I hate the crowded steps. Some day I will actually get round to a recee and decide which is best for me. Today I played safe and went to the steps. We caught a group doing a charity challenge.  They obviously have as much right to be there but who would organise a challenge on the same day as PPP and when almost 400 Fellsman runners are going to try to get past. Once off the rocks it was a lovely run down to the Hill Inn. So dry it was easy to take to grassy trods beside the flag stones.

I needed nothing yet and so once wooped I headed on down the road and onto the track leading to Wernside. No SportSunday photographers to make me smile this year but I had a spell of feeling good- until it got steep that is. Claire has not been running much and I could see her just ahead. It gave me something to aim for. Once on the main ridge you get to see all those who have already been to the CP at the trig (well not the fastest runners who are already long gone). 

Friends manning the Whernside CP

A quick turn around here and then it was off down the ridge and the CP in Kingsdale. Most of this is lovely grassy flat or downhill running. I knew I should eat and so grabbed two Voom bars at the CP. I quickly ate them as I plodded up the gentle starter slope. Before long I had sharp pains in my lower belly- was it the Voom? I will never know but certainly I struggled up the steep climb to Gragareth and could barely run on the flatter path to the CP and back. 

Gragareth just gets steeper and steeper

Perhaps I had just set off too fast and was now paying for it? It was disappointing being caught by runners but there was nothing to be done except to plod on and admire the view. I was quite pleased with my line off Great Coum  but then felt I was slow on the track after Flinters Gyll. The nasty track was dry but still hard on the feet and two women got ahead of me. At Dent there was kit check which is always irritating as inevitably what they want is buried deep in your sack. Dave was sat waiting for Albert but I had to say that I had not seen him. I topped up my water and had different food before heading off along the minor road eating my sandwich. A third of the race done and things sort of OK. I started to feel a bit more positive and was able to call back a runner who otherwise would have gone very wrong. By now people were settling into their natural pace and most of those I was with now I would be with at least on and off all the way to the finish. Between us we took a good line to Blea Moor and although it was still a little damp at the bottom it was much less boggy than usual. I lost some time over the short stretch of rough grass to the air shaft and then again on the steep steps through the last plantation but I did run pretty much all of the road and arrived in Stonehouse ready to eat again. Last year their theme was Alice in Wonderland this year a prison break.

Stonehouse -pasta please

The climb under the viaduct is never easy and I did not have the energy to dig out my phone to take a photo of the train. The next CP on Great Knoutberry is another little out and back with lots of mutual support by those ascending and descending. The run down was wonderful. Suddenly I found myself running alone- too slow for the guys ahead but a bit faster than those behind. I wasn't really worried and this continued pretty much until the finish. A good line let me catch them by Redshaw. 

I had a quick chat with Aimie as I ate hot dog ( I had marshalled the CP with her a few years ago) and left munching banana. I was trying to remember if it was my second or third and how much you needed to get potassium poisoning.  There was banter as we climbed to Snaizeholme and set off on the fence line to the big track. I had told the group about the nice grassy track to the radio aerials at the road junction but they were met by family here and slowed to be with them for a while. By Dodd there were others with me and it helped keep the pace up to reach the trig. The line off was not obvious but I knew the way and we caught two that had dropped too low to the left. They then all followed me to the start of the bridleway and were pleased to have got such a good line.

At Fleet Moss we all wanted to eat and restock. I knew if I stopped here too long that it would feel very cold when I left and as they didn't have fruit salad this year and I didn't fancy the bean stew I was soon on my way.  The tarmac is a bit grim but I told myself it was easy kilometres and worked on catching anybody I could see ahead. I overtook one runner and two others were only just ahead when I reached the 'new' Deepdale CP by the river. Despite stopping for a pee I was still only just behind them at Yockenthwaite and we climbed the moor together. I was confident of my line to the 'new' CP at the wall corner and found some reasonable trods. It was now a short run to Hells Gap with the wall for guidance and we ran together before another short run down to Cray. I knew from LAW that the track had recently been covered with fresh aggregate and tried to find verge trods where I could. 

Great idea for runners with tired quads and CP staff that can't lift the heavy liquids

Cray is where I start to prepare for the night. I used their loo, organised my sack so that I could reach my gloves and torch and tried to eat some more. People seemed to be taking a variety of lines up the stream below Buckden Pike but I just stuck with what I know and was happy.  It was still light at the trig, just, but I put my torch on to avoid tripping on the flagstone path along the top. After the memorial I jumped through the wall and so avoided the boggy peaty erode mess on the north side- so much better. I was alone again, although I could see red lights ahead and torches behind me. I have taken many different lines here and basically until you hit the main path none are great. The main path had the most mud of the day so far.  

Sadly dark when I arrived 

At the Top Mere CP it was nice to shout hello to Joe and Nav4 friends before the easy bridleway that would lead me to the road above Park Rash. I caught two runners here and we ran across the grass paths to the fairly lights at the CP together. I tried to find things I wanted to eat but mostly drinks and somehow left the CP alone. 

Fairy lights and beacons

There were torches ahead and behind as I climbed up to Great Whernside. Either here or on Buckden it briefly tried to drizzle on me but it did not last long and I continued in just my base layers. 

I felt I was slow on the steep bit to the stile but them made better time on the moor. Somewhere around here I started overtaking Dart people. I was running alone again but happy- I was sticking to the fence line until the Langcliffe Pot area. I was mostly happy but in a moment of inattention did manage to find a deep dark bog with my right leg. At least it didn't suck my shoe off.

From Capplestone Gate I had other runners around me. Strangely one group of guys seemed reluctant to run so two of us pulled ahead. We got a good line down to the bridleway and soon picked up the beacons and reflective tape that would lead us to Yarnbury. Here I grabbed sweets for just a hit of sugar. I must have been in a better state than some years because I managed to run/jog almost all of the road and down into Grassington. I knew I couldn't quite beat 16 hours so there seemed little point in making a crazy effort. I got cat called near the pubs but two groups of local teenagers were lovely and encouraging.

Yes- if there is mud or bog I will find it

A stomp and jog up from the bridge saw me arrive at the school in 16hrs 07mins- faster than last year- something I would not have believed when I was in Dent.

Winners- they look so young

 8th female behind a very speedy Anna Llewellyn who won outright and took a new record. 

1st FV60 (only FV60) and only 20 mins behind the FV50 and only beaten by one MV60. I wonder how many more I can do?

Bob was there at the finish. He had slotted in a bike ride but then been helping man the finish desk. Several cups of tea, baked potato with chilli, apple pie and custard refreshed me enough to feel it was time for bed. I couldn't face what might be a cold shower and so opted for a strip wash in the van. 

Another £44 for Mnt Rescue

A fried egg breakfast set me up for taking down the flags and then the prize giving. An overall female win for first time ever in The Fellsman, and indeed in the Dart too. We did get the Oldies team prize again and I collected a spot prize of a tent for Mark who has now completed the Fellsman!

We were tired but less so than last year and being home by mid afternoon certainly helped.

Nav4 Lakes Mountain 40

 Not a Runfurther race- just for me! and I guess because I cannot do P39 this year it was a sort of consolation prize.  I last did this route in post covid August. It was hot and we ate post race out on the lawn. Before that I had done two LM42s when we dropped to Thirlmere. It often clashes with the Calderdale Hike which is usually in the Runfurther series. It was nice just to turn up, with no flags etc to worry about. We arrived via climbing at Kendal wall. I am sure that almost four hours there on the long routes and big overhang was slightly foolish but we had not been for a while and I loved it even if I did leave tired and with very sore hands. We also dropped off the old Romneys mint cake banner as we were in Kendal- things are coming to an end.

What a sky!

By late afternoon we were parked up by Askham Hall and relaxing. Knowing that once I ventured up to the race HQ I would inevitably get talking we opted to eat first. A big carbonara plus some wine and I was full. It was still raining as it had been all day so I wandered up with a brolly but alone. The entry this year seemed very small and unfairly so for such a good route and an event with good food. Registration was very fast and as the trackers could not be turned on until the morning there was little to do. It was good to have time to chat to Joe- two 'grumpy old gits' who  feel not all change is for the better. I wandered back to the van before dark and we topped up with heavily discounted Baileys from Aldi. It was still raining.

I collected my kit and clothes together and prayed that the rain would stop as the forecast said- I had not brought my big cag nor my over mitts (what was I thinking, they weigh nothing!). As I got ready for bed it became obvious the wedding party was in full swing but fortunately at a very low volume. It didn't keep me awake and I fell asleep to the sound of heavy rain.

At about 4am I realised that the rain had stopped. My alarm was set for 4.50 but a need for the toilet got me up earlier- sorry Bob. I made coffee for us both, at and got dressed. It was decidedly chilly in the van and Bob wisely stayed in bed.

By 5.20am I was back at the hall, had my tracker attached and was chatting to friends.  A few loo stops and then it was time to gather outside by the big tree/bus stop. I had two base layers and my light cag plus gloves. I wasn't too warm. Pyramid intervals in the week and then a long sunny run on Darwen Moor soon found me out. I felt I was struggling as we climbed towards Loadpot Hill. Bonnie was well out of sight and Louise was a bit ahead. 

Toosie- good company

I ran with Toosie a lovely South African and aiming to stick with her pulled me along all the way to Patterdale where she cut her race short and returned to Askham. Once over Loadpot the wind became stronger and it was really cold as we climbed towards High Street. The visibility diminished and it was good to have others around to confirm that I was on track. I was shocked at how wet the ground was in places- the moors at home are still bone dry. I was also very shocked at how cold my hands were and very annoyed with myself for only bringing the one pair of thin gloves- lesson ready for the Fellsman I guess. 

The High Street trig appeared and it was a joy to turn and head downwards hoping to get warm. Others coming up were also looking very cold. I got a great line off The Knott on a nice grassy slope and so avoiding the nasty stone path. I then messed it up a bit by taking too direct a line at Angle Tarn and so was back with Toosie again.  It was warmer now and we made decent time to Boredale Hause. I am getting slower and slower on the rock steps down to Side Farm- it infuriates me but a combination of worsening eyes, less elastic legs, slow reactions and the 'what if' scenario just cannot be changed. Plus I needed to stop for a pee.

Help- I look so old

The CP just before the main road was a welcome sight and Stuart, Angela, Louise etc were all very encouraging. I grabbed cheese and banana and pushed straight on- lots of time can be wasted at CPs.

I was alone all the way along and up the road and also on the big track to the bridge. I thought I could see Louise up ahead as I started on the path to Grisedale Tarn. I was nice and warm now- partly it was gone 10am and also it was sheltered in the valley. I hoped it wouldn't be too bad on the tops. Ruthwaite Lodge was set up for the cancer charity cake sale and I recognised those manning it as orienteers. I had no cash and no time to stop though. From here I soon reached the Brothers Parting Stone at the tarn. What a chilly spot to marshall from. I contemplated a direct ascent but decided I would keep better pace on the steps and I am glad I did as I soon spotted John Bamber with his camera. Dollywagon Pike soon came into sight and it was windy. Fortunately it was blowing from the east and so not dangerous, plus we did not need to follow the edge path over every lump. By Nethermost Pike the clag was down again and the sky looked very ominous to the north. 

Great scenery all day

We have free route choice between CPs and I had already pretty much decided that I was going down Swirral Edge. Striding Edge would be too slow and likely crowded and the zig zags and then Glenridding was much too far. I avoided most of the rock but was shocked at how muddy and eroded to path to the side was. At least it wasn't long before I was on grass and heading to the outlet of Red Tarn and the path up to the Hole in the Wall. I could not see that I was gaining on a guy and also Louise!

Louise

It was now warm but I didn't want to waste time stopping so just shoved my sleeves up and tucked my open cag around behind my race vest. I was pleased with my speed up to the stile but then slower than hoped as they had done 'work' on the path down into Grisedale. The work was rocks and large lumps of gravel. Before the tarmac I overtook the guy and this fired me up to chase Louise. It's not often that I start slow enough to then be able to pick people off later but today was going well and I had been eating quite well too.

Not today but same route

At Patterdale I grabbed more food and topped up my water before the easy run to Side Farm. Louise was now only a few minutes ahead and as I climbed to Boredale Hause I was happily reeling her in. I think we were both feeling it a bit on the long climb to Place Fell and it was windy on the top. We left the trig together which was good but in trying to stay ahead I forgot to look for the grassy trod off to the right and ended up on the ain path which is slower at the outset. By the big sheep fold I was definitely pulling away and this spurred me on further. I love the grassy paths that drop into Boredale and today they were pretty dry and runnable. I am less a fan of the tarmac which followed but was also determined to keep running to Martindale church and not to waste my lead. A quick check over my shoulder on the final climb to the church suggested all was well. 

I was now very warm and trying to count down the final km. Again we had route choice and I decided it would be best to stay by the road and take all the grassy short cuts which would be drier than usual. I was upset that when I did the race in Aug 2021 I had finished by now- time of 7.52 but it couldn't be helped. Surely being a few years older had not made such a difference? Once past the outdoor centre there seemed to be quite a few more tourists on the paths but I used them and others heading back to pull me on. 

Pleased with this- I was strong in the last third

I think I overtook 4-6 runners here.  Before the main track and the cockpit I could see Mark ahead in his distinctive shorts and white cag. I tried hard to catch him but although I got closer I could not quite do it. Once we hit the lane he made a very determined effort and despite us both running hard he beat me by less than a minute. 

8.49 was not the time I had hoped for but I was happy. Bonnie was first F in 7.37 so my 7.52 was overly optimistic especially when I found Matt N had only completed in 7.23.

I was 2ndF, 1st FV50/60 and pleased to find I had beaten the MV60s. The next FV60 was 2 hours behind and Louise was 10 minutes behind me. The hall seemed strangely empty and quiet compared to TDH before Christmas but it made for easy relaxation and lots of Nav4 food. Two bowls of soup, proper bread, cake and endless cups of tea quickly had me feeling good again. Bob came in a bit later- he had been out on his bike. I had a quick shower to remove some mud and sweat as we were staying up in the van rather than heading home. 

Celebrating a 40th Anniversary with 40 miles

We waited to see Albert and Michelle finish and then it was off to Shap for a chippy tea. We couldn't get to Oddendale and so went instead to the quarry above Orton and had splendid views of the eastern Lakes and Howgills for the evening. Not a bad day out and the forecast had been accurate.

Aug 2020 - I love the sun

Dry feet in Calderdale

 I knew I was woefully underprepared but hey ho. We had skied in Jan/Feb, then had a short trip to Morocco, then a longer trip to Iceland. Both were great but involved very little running and not really a great deal of walking. A last minute ski trip in March meant another spell of no running and I know from past experience that although I 'hope' it will maintain fitness it does not seem to. I had of course managed Bowland Ultra and LAW75 but they were weeks ago. To compound matters were returned to glorious weather and so having got the van back from some work set off for the Lakes. It was too nice not to run and so I spent Wednesday and Thursday running over big hills. Not ideal prep but it was too nice not to be out there!

We drove over after tea on Friday evening and intended to put up the flags and banners. It was still light and there were lots of kids playing out so we decided it was best to wait til morning. In previous years we were disturbed very early if we parked at the cricket ground and still quite early in the school car park. This year we were almost on our own- so much so that I checked the web to make sure we had the correct date!

The forecast was great with more dry, sunny, warm weather promised although the cold wind would continue. It was a shock to wake to a very cold van and grey skies. The forecast was still sticking to the story so we hoped it would improve. By 7.20 the flags were up and we were back in the van for breakfast. By 8 we wandered across to registration and to chat. The sky was getting blue and by 9 it was warmer.

Before the start I managed to find several runners that had been unable to attend the AGM and present necktubes. It was good to see Steve, Charlotte, Janet as well as the usual Kevin, Adam, Lawrence, Ian, Phil, Tim and more. The race now uses a timing chip rather than the old tallies although they were using pen and paper with watch times as a back up.

At 9am prompt we were set off to chase down the walkers who had departed one or two hours earlier. This year all but one runner left by the back gate and all stuck to the lanes too. Within minutes we came to a halt as a police car with lights and siren tried to get up one steep lane and turn onto our. Parked cars made it difficult but after a couple of minutes they were through and on our ay again- the first 8 or so made it past and were already some way down the lane. The steep, very steep descent on tarmac is not a great way to warm the legs up and I focused on trying to stay with Amy and not worry about the men.

Moving up out of the valley I remembered the way and was soon on my way up through Luddenden and Wainstalls. I was happy with my route from last year rather than the 'suggested' one. It is more on tarmac which is not great but it is certainly faster and I got ahead of about six runners by the time I reached Hough Gate Head Farm and the turning across some welcome grass and then Halifax Golf Club. I was still with Amy as she was less certain about the route. Once past Ogden Reservoir there seemed to be more of the walkers who had set off much earlier and as we headed down Hambleton Lane Amy started to pull away a little. She has borrowed the GPX file from Kevin and so she also knew to use the goyt rather than the lower track. I concentrated on not letting the distance increase as we headed to the CP at Nab Water Lane and then along the conduit to Hebden Bridge road. 

Once across this I tried to pick off walkers and recognised the posture of the person ahead. Postures are distinctive and I was quite sure it was Ian F even though I had not seen him back at the start. It was and so I slowed for a brief chat and to reprimand him for having the cheek to 'run' when he started as a walker!  Stairs Lane seemed quite short and I was soon heading down to the next CP at Grain Water Bridge.  Once on the bridleway there were a few more walkers and I caused some confusion when I announced "i'm not going that way". My way sticking to the bridleway until the barns at Nook is slightly further but much easier running and nav. Amy turned back and joined me. More grass led to Walshaw and then it was the long boring road/track all the way to the minor road. Amy was still in sight but pulling away a bit.

The next CP is slightly off route. I grabbed a banana and topped up my water before turning to trudge up and up the road to the dam of Widdop Reservoir. The ground was still unbelievably dry and firm which was making for faster progress but slightly sore feet. Gorple Gate track went on a bit but at least the wind was on my back. Again walkers were confused when I headed down the east side of Hurtswood Reservoir rather than up onto Gorple Road. Again it meant tarmac but I knew this was was all downhill and so faster.

I grabbed a sandwich at the CP before heading south to Long Causeway. The road seemed shorter this year and I didn't need anything from the CP.  Amazingly the path below Stippenden House farm was almost dry! Dry clean feet for I think the first time in over a decade on several races that take that route. Amy was now out of sight and I was running on my own; in fact I stayed alone until almost the finish. Once down at Stoodley Lane I refilled my water yet again. With route choice from here until the final finish climb it is pretty flat and I was determined to try to run all or most of it. It felt like many km on the boring canal tow path but at least it wasn't dead straight and stretching into the distance. A path closure near Hebden added more interest as did dodging tourists on the tow path and through the park. I escaped having avoided dogs, toddlers on bikes, prams etc and was now heading for Mytholmroyd. It always amuses me how Todmorden and Mytholmroyd are so 'normal' and even a bit poor whereas Hebden sandwiched between them is so obviously moneyed, a bit hippy and full of tourists.

After Mytholmroyd station it is cycle way, parallel but not on the canal. I stopped for a satsuma at the last CP and then concentrated on picking off walkers form the short and medium courses all the way along to Luddenden Foot and up the very very steep hill to Sowerby. Focus on the church and keep plodding! The finish via the back gate is only slightly shorter but every little helps.  I thought I was just over 7hrs but had started my watch early? and my official time was bang on 7hrs, the same as last year. Better than I dared hope. 2nd F behind Amy and certainly 1st FV50/60.

There was some confusion as to whether the new timing chips would record our finish time or the person sat inside doing it manually? It would also be better if the chips beeped loudly at each CP to confirm it had registered. Bob was waiting patiently for me having finished his bike ride some time earlier. The food was great and I refuelled on baked potato, chilli, cheese, yogurts and lots of drink (including a beer). It was a shame not to wait for all the others still running but we were due to meet Chris in Leeds so we quickly took down flags and banners before saying our goodbyes and Thank you.

LAW75 a lesson in humility

 LAW75 by Nav4 was the second race in the 2025 Runfurther series and I was looking forward to it. I have done the LAW100 twice- once solo as my birthday run and the LDWA virtual 100 in Covid and once as a race in storm Malik. This route would be slightly different in a couple of places but I tried to estimate my finish time based on those other runs and hoped for 18 hours/2am finish. What I had not taken into consideration was toes still sore from chillblain damage plus a serious lack of hill running training. Bowland Ultra was a month ago and the snow had been too deep for much running, then we had been skiing for a fortnight.

Yes I need a hair cut.

A dodgy clutch on the van changed my transport plans so I drove across to Skipton on Saturday morning. I was keen to meet up with Mark again and perhaps run with him as I had in Storm Malik and on the Yorkshire Trod. It was not to be, or not for long anyway.

Registration was short and smooth with my drop bag and finish bag soon loaded into the van. There was plenty of time to chat to Joe, Stu, Phil and others. The forecast had improved and the weather looked to be dry but chilly it might be windy but we would be fairly sheltered on our route.

Solo start some years ago

Before 8 we were assembled in front of Skipton Castle and ready for the off. It was low key and somehow I found myself right at the front for a few minutes. I felt OK but it was perhaps too fast. I stuck with Mark until beyond the first villages and the ice cream vans but then he pulled ahead as we headed up onto the moor. I know the way on all this first section and so was quite happy to be on my own. I passed the vehicle CP at Barden and pushed on along the Dales Way to Burnsall and another vehicle CP where we joked about not needing to climb to Hebden this time. Then it was on on along the nice river side paths to Grassington. My feet felt a bit tender but I could still see Mark up ahead. By Grassington I had lost him though. There were a few people about and a couple of other runners around me as I headed up onto the moors and Bare House and Kelber. Just that short climb saw conditions change with the odd patch of old snow and a dusting of new snow too. There were a few other runners about now and I made a new friend in Anthony who lives near me. I was able to call him back on track a couple of times. I also took him on a very tiny detour as I wanted to visit the trig point at Capplestone Gate. So many Fellsman memories up here. Soon it was either flat or downhill and on lovely grassy paths. 

So many of these nasty ankle biters

My running felt OK- until I reached a stile and then found my quads would just not work. Not great with so many more miles left. The gnarly bit on the final drop to Kettlewell meant that I arrived at the CP with sore feet and useless quads. Not in a good mental state really.  As I sat trying to decide whether the dry socks were making my shoes too tight. I had tea, soup and snacks but forgot to replenish food from my drop bag.  Ah well. On on to Starbotton and Buckden. I still knew the way here but knew I was struggling to run when Paul overtook me and it took me ages to catch Anthony who had missed the CP even though the Dales Way is pretty flat here. Leaving Buckden and heading up to the road above Cray I did catch him up and then headed off alone up the old lane. 

Happy times- solo in the heatwave

A group of off road vehicles came down and had broken the icy puddles. It felt hard work stomping up hill and the top was lumpier than I remembered and I was struggling to run as much as I had hoped.

Cray in storm Malik

 Eventually I was heading down to Carpley Green and the next vehicle CP. Here I discovered that I was being chased down by Ali Bailey. Oh no, but there was nothing I could do about the speed of other runners. I caught Anthony again and we pretty much ran together past Cubeck, Worton and Nappa Mill. I pointed out the farm Lady Anne visited and showed him to easy to miss path off the top road and then it was just a short stretch to Askrigg and the next real CP.

I was in a sorry state. Frustrated at not being able to run much, sore feet from the chillblains but now also the 'not a neuroma'. I was waited on and brought soup and pizza which helped. I took my shoe off but that just made it worse so after a quick visit to the kitchen for more food and a chat with Matt N who was volunteering and Jim T who was moving drop bags.  At least they knew me and recognised that I would not be bailing. Ali appeared as I was getting ready to leave. I set off heading west towards Hawes now and wondered how far I would get before dark. One section here near a farm was ridiculously muddy and my mood dipped again. After Sedbusk it was better and I jogged to Hardraw where it was time to turn my torch on. I managed a mix of jog and walk along the road to near Appersett.I lost the path near the River Ure but not for long and soon emerged onto the road and the next vehicle CP. Angela topped up my water and tried to give me encouragement as I was still first female at this point. 

The climb up Cotter Rigg was longer but less steep than I remembered.There were a few boggy bits but it was not too bad. looking behind me I could not see any torches and that cheered me up. I was alone at the top and as I carried on with the pleasant grassy paths.I was not running quite as much as I had hoped but it was at least forward progress.It was chilly up here and I had to put my hat and gloves back on. Somewhere on the track to Hell Gill Bridge I passed a guy plodding along with one pole.I told myself to jog more and was so pleased I had opted to carry the poles as by now I was very reliant on them to take some of the load off my quads. I reached the valley road just seconds before Ali and we headed off towards Pendragon together. She pulled ahead after a bit and I just could not keep up. 

The next vehicle CP assured me that the coming section was a nice track- and it was mostly. I lost the path briefly near the River Eden but I do not think it cost me much time. I then spent a short while with Jonaton and Ryan.It was good to have company although again we lost the path a couple of times. At Nateby they pulled ahead and I struggled to run on the gnarly little path that is like stream bed. Near Hartley I realised I had taken a left turn too early. I could not face retracing my steps and was keen to get some painkillers in town and perhaps a sit down toilet (my quads were well past squatting!). After Kirkby Stephen I got back on route but it was slow progress and I could not even manage a jog down the old lane into Winton. This was pathetic and perhaps a sign that I should have eaten more?

The indoor CP did not come too soon. Siobhan and the other staff were wonderfully caring. I ate plenty and massaged my quads lots which did seem to help a bit. A few other runners arrived, Yvonne amongst them. Anthony and I set off towards Kaber together but then ended up the wrong side of a ditch and hedge line before missing another stile.By Belah Scar the others had caught us and I found enough energy to stick with them. I felt a bit bad about leaving Anthony but I was now in survival mode and relished the company and help with nav as we  jog walked to Brough Sowerby and beyond. FRom here Joe had modified the route and I knew I had to take care as it would be new to me. The best bits were definitely over now- perhaps a LAW100km ending in Winton would be popular. We were on the Pennine Journey route but some of the paths barely seemed to exist on the ground and there was so much mud. It was a bit dispiriting but we started counting down the miles and km. Warcop came and went until there was just one village left and I started to recognise where we were again.All the walking and food made me want to attempt some jogging but the others seemed content to plod and I stuck with them. It was perhaps the correct decision as Mike pushed on but went wrong and then had to catch us up again. It was a comfort to find the others were now also struggling with stiles and sore quads.

The path by the river was almost dry and much less dodgy than I had feared. Also on the steepest section descending to here there were new steps! I had hoped to run now but I stopped for a wee meaning that the three of us reached the tarmac together. It seemed rude to run off, or try to and as my target time was long gone it did not seem to matter much whether we scraped under the 20hours or were just over. We agreed to cross the line together at the Moot Hall. Yvonne was delighted to be joint 2nd F and pleased with her time so it seemed churlish to show my disappointment. 

From the Moot Hall we were shepherded through an alley and into The Hub. I was reunited with my drop bag and finish bag plus given soup and chilli. Jonaton had not been finished long but soon headed off to sleep. I was preparing to join him when Bob rang to say he was awake and would come and get me.Rather than disturb the others I settled down on the floor for an hour or so. Andy Collier had a blasting run to finish first in 14hrs13 and Phil had a great run in second place  despite his chilly night camping in Skipton Park. Mark had managed to beat my hoped for time and will be pleased with his run. Ali was first F in 18.24 and Yvonne and I next in 20.03. 76 miles and 2559m was done.I was still 1stFV50 and infact the only V60 to beat me was Mike who finished less than a minute ahead. So in the end I guess it was not so bad but I am still not happy about how I did and need to keep that in mind and learn a lesson. Fail to prepare = prepare to fail. Perhaps I need to enter next year and try to do better (or just accept that I am getting a bit rubbish)

Bob appeared and carried all my stuff to the car once we had said bye and thank you to a tired looking Joe and other volunteers. Nav4 do put on great events.I  did not take a single photo during the event but fortunately others did and I have some from previous journeys along the route.

First race of the new year Bowland Ultra

 11 Jan, 40 miles and around 2000m of ascent around the beautiful Bowland Fells and valleys. First in the Runfurther series, billed as a winter ultra and it certainly was! These are my local hills so I was keen and the route had some significant improvements from last year with less road and going up from Langden beck rather than down to it. I know and run on the tops often but do not really know the lowland field paths at all. 

A reccee run in October saw me fall and break my hand, I hoped this was not an omen. The lead up to race day saw lots of snow plus icy roads. The RO was inundated with questions but can be proud that he stuck to us doing the full route with a big kit list and great care at the CPs. 

The new route is tougher than last year's but with the addition of thigh deep snow, sheet ice and yet still bogs still present it was a really tough day out with most people taking over 2 hours extra.

On the drive over the roads were clear of ice and I parked easily. The parking meter was frozen up but with the help of friends we got it working and headed to the comfort of Slaidburn village hall. Registration and kit check were thorough but slick and the mountain of goodies for the Food Bank was growing nicely. 

Tracker attached I went in search of friends and a cup of tea. Lots of debate re shoes, studs, microspikes and layers followed before we were given a short briefing and herded outside. Luckily Nick had travelled up on Friday evening and so he dealt with all the flags, banners and boards for Runfurther. 

It was a very chilly start, perhaps -8C but we soon warmed up as we headed out up the thankfully ice free lanes. 

After about 2km the lane got icy and then packed snow led up to the fell. 

The sunrise was stunning and the views west towards Totridge and Parlick were superb. 

The Salter Fell road is a huge 4x4 track but today it was covered in deep snow with only a narrow path bashed by the front runners. It was difficult to run in such conditions. 

Nearing the col we left the track and turned sharp left down a small path. The steep snow was a joy and despite a soft tumble it was fun. 

Getting closer to Whitendale river the ground turned icy and boggy. The path here is not good at the best of times. I slipped where a snow covering hid sheet ice. A heavy fall with my knee hitting a rock winded me and was not what I needed after only 11km. I picked myself up and continued more cautiously. At least the chillblains that I had reactivated last Wednesday were not causing me any issues yet. It had meant I could not use my shoes with metal dobs as they were too tight. Instead I opted to carry microspikes although given the intermittent nature of the icy bits I never actually wore them. 

At Whitendale Farm CP my knee was very stiff and swollen, i just hoped that if I kept moving it would not seize up. A chunk of fell path led over the top and down to Brennand Farm where the ice was even worse and certainly sowed me down. The slope up Ouster Rake was a joy with frozen snow that mostly bore my weight. Initially the descent to the Trough road was OK but towards the bottom there was more ice and it was a relief to reach the tarmac and be able to run again.. The track up Langden was better but I was tired from the snowy sections now.

I chatted to Charlotte and tried not to let her get ahead. The lovely safety marshalls had put in some great stepping stones and with the aid of my poles I kept dry feet as I crossed. It was a hard plod up to Fiensdale Head but these are my hills so I felt good. I had been worried about ice on the flagstones at the top but they were buried under plenty of snow and posed no problem. We were soon on the lovely descent to Hazlehurst and then the less lovely field paths to Bleasdale. Here supporters were out with cow bells and the CP was inside the hall. I stopped for tea, soup and some food. Using my poles had meant not eating much on the route. I left with Charlotte as we headed for Blindhurst Farm and then up Parlick. 

Parlick is always busy and today it was crowded with walkers and families sledging and enjoying the snow. The trudge up Parlick was steep but short and then we were on the more gentle climb to Fairsnape trig and more safety marshalls. The sky over towards the coast looked ominous but it was nice on this short out and back to say hi and to encourage other runners. Dropping off Parlick we used a path I rarely use as the bottom is a bog fest, it was today! Bogs and some snow continued past Wolfen Hall and all the way to Saddle End farm and down to Chipping. 

Another lovely village hall with great marshalls and food. More tea and soup plus a sandwich and then a small pie as I set off through the village chasing Charlotte. Knowing the way allowed me to keep with Charlotte and soon a group of four of us were making our way towards Mellor Knoll. The stiles on these lower paths were causing my knee problems and the others pulled ahead as we dropped to Hareden Farm.  In the Chipping area I had been beating myself up about my slow progress and despaired about finishing time for us to drive to the Alps the next day. I had even considered giving up. 

Now on the road to Dunsop Bridge and the last indoor CP my spirits lifted and I started to believe I might finish in a reasonable time.  I refuelled briefly at the cheerful CP, put on my torch (it had been dark for my jog along the road) and set off on the roads towards the water works knowing that the flat section should allow me to up my pace a little. There were a few icy patches but they were avoidable. I was now alone but could see lights ahead and also two someway behind me. After the water works and bridge the track stayed good for a while but the little contouring path heading north was awful- narrow, boggy, icy in places. It was a relief to reach the shooting track near Whitendale. True it was full of deep snow but I was gaining on the lights ahead of me and losing the ones behind me. The soft snow was hard work and the foot prints in places were thigh deep. The top section had been waymarked and I think a quad bike had tried to bash a way for us. Lifted by gaining on the lights ahead I made good progress and pretty much caught them as we left the fell. 

Once on the farm tracks the others pulled ahead with better running. Even on the ice free road I was struggling and did a mixture of walk and jog. My aim now was to finish inside eleven and a half hours. I did and was 5th woman and 1st FV60. I still thought I had been rubbish, my chillblained feet were now sore and my knee impressively large.

 Finding that others, including front runners, had also taken about two hours longer than expected cheered me up as I enjoyed my hot chocolate by the brazier. Being tired from effort but not in the the same way as a usual running race meant I enjoyed my post race meal. After a short prize ceremony I knew I had to leave before I seized up. 

My winnings

Well done to Seth and his team. A true winter Ultra that should become a classic.

First man was home in 9hrs 10, Phil was 5th in 9.45. Magda was 1st F in 10.46 and my time was 11.21 Full results are on Opentracking. 78 finished and 15 retired either timed out or struggling in the snow. Hopefully next year will be less epic although I think I would prefer snow and ice to wind and rain.