Hill Running 1:06:07 [5] 5.76 mi (11:29 / mi) +750m 8:10 / mi
Carnethy 5 Race - Given the forecast it really did seem borderline whether the race should go ahead or not. Seemed not too bad until we were lined up, then the wind and rain really picked up. Started pretty steady and was pretty much in a queue up Scald Law. No bad thing as certainly needed the energy once we got to the top. Was exceptionally wild over the next three hills to West Kip. Trying to get to the turn on West Kip was almost a crawl, kudos to the marshals. Really enjoyed the descent to the Howe, particularly the last bit which was very sloppy/slidey. Gained good ground on those I'd been with or behind on the Kips. A few folk passed me again up Carnethy, Angela for one powering ahead. Ground it out to limit the damage. Tough going up the top bit to Carnethy, then wiped out tripping on a rock round the cairn. Luckily gloves took the impact rather than skin. Got going again on the descent and loved the line via the scree, most fun. Hit the bottom and Angela appeared again, so ran her down across the bog. Was an exceptionally tough race and the toughest weather I think I've raced in bar mountain marathons (Howgills & Galloway). Glad to stick with it and pleased with the result given how challenging it's been to try and get fit again. Lucky the downhill form was good today. 56th overall, 13mins down on Sasha. Might've been close to breaking the hour on a perfect day but who knows. Credit to the marshals and all the helpers, as well as Olly for putting the race on. It was horrendous at times but all the more memorable, and satisfying for it.