Training Log Archive: Mark3In the 30 days ending Sep 30, 2018:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| « | » |
| » now | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Sa | Su | Mo | Tu | We | Th | Fr | Sa | Su | Mo | Tu | We | Th | Fr | Sa | Su | Mo | Tu | We | Th | Fr | Sa | Su | Mo | Tu | We | Th | Fr | Sa | Su | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Sunday Sep 30, 2018 #
Running - Trail race (Groovy Kinder Love) 3:03:34 [5] 26.63 km (6:54 / km) +1496m 5:23 / km
ahr:142 max:177 shoes: X-talon 212 (blk/flro) - Nov17
17th
https://fellrunner.org.uk/results.php?id=5335
A toughie. Did the first half terribly but the second half well, so ended up with a reasonable result.
I don't know the Kinder area that well so decided in advance to stick to the ba-ba™ routes. Apart from once where I listened to Julie! That was definitely a bad call.
Anyway. Fine up to the shooting cabin although legs a bit destroyed from yesterday. Then some people took a straighter line to #2 but I think staying on the trod worked well. Then from #2 I took Julie's route continuing up Mill Hill on the trod; that was a terrible choice as it was both more distance, more climb, and judging from where everyone else came out, the running going the more direct way was fine. So that was annoying. But, obvs, my own fault.
Fine to Harry Hut CP3. Then everyone around me was coming back towards me, but I trusted Nic and went straight on before peeling off to the right. Unfortunately I messed it up and stayed too high, had to climb down and up two massive stream gullys and got stuck in lots of slow heather. Came out in an acceptable place but lost a load more places here. I think if I'd have gone lower and gone down to the path like I was supposed to, this route would have been better than what others were doing.
4-5 deviated from Nic and tried to follow the grouse butts up, but followed the first line rather than the second (should have gone back to the cabin, dammit - unfortunately I was following other people at this point since my own initiative had proven to be rubbish) and there was no path at all; the straight line route would have been faster than what I did although if I did this race again I'd attempt my original plan.
Accidentally climbed over some fences (the first was what looked like a gate, and had some signs on saying 'no swimming' but nothing about 'no admittance' - but then when all the ways out were barbed wire I realised that was implied. So lost a bit of time 6-7, and again by not cutting the Upper Moor corner.
Then the main route choice leg, I tried to take Nic's line staying S of Three Knolls and going up to Kinderlow Cavern and then round. This was successful but it was really rough at the bottom and then a very steep climb. I think following the E stream all the way up is probably best here because again, if all the ways are going to be walking then the straightest is probably best.
Too far E down from Noe Stool to Jacob's ladder but I have a much better idea of that line now for Trigger. Eventually found the trod about halfway down. Then from 9 on pretty good, went up the spur and hit Brown Knoll dead on, then overtook a few people up South Head and Mount Famine; neither of which I'd been up before so nice to get in a bit of tourism.
Got a bit lost in a field and had to climb another barbed wire fence down to 13.
So significant time lost on 3,4,5,8 and some smaller amounts on 7,9,13. Basically - this would have been an excellent recce! I might come and do it again on a free day. Definitely will attempt next year as I reckon could be 15mins+ faster. Disappointing performance but a nice day out; liked the route.
https://fellrunner.org.uk/results.php?id=5335
A toughie. Did the first half terribly but the second half well, so ended up with a reasonable result.
I don't know the Kinder area that well so decided in advance to stick to the ba-ba™ routes. Apart from once where I listened to Julie! That was definitely a bad call.
Anyway. Fine up to the shooting cabin although legs a bit destroyed from yesterday. Then some people took a straighter line to #2 but I think staying on the trod worked well. Then from #2 I took Julie's route continuing up Mill Hill on the trod; that was a terrible choice as it was both more distance, more climb, and judging from where everyone else came out, the running going the more direct way was fine. So that was annoying. But, obvs, my own fault.
Fine to Harry Hut CP3. Then everyone around me was coming back towards me, but I trusted Nic and went straight on before peeling off to the right. Unfortunately I messed it up and stayed too high, had to climb down and up two massive stream gullys and got stuck in lots of slow heather. Came out in an acceptable place but lost a load more places here. I think if I'd have gone lower and gone down to the path like I was supposed to, this route would have been better than what others were doing.
4-5 deviated from Nic and tried to follow the grouse butts up, but followed the first line rather than the second (should have gone back to the cabin, dammit - unfortunately I was following other people at this point since my own initiative had proven to be rubbish) and there was no path at all; the straight line route would have been faster than what I did although if I did this race again I'd attempt my original plan.
Accidentally climbed over some fences (the first was what looked like a gate, and had some signs on saying 'no swimming' but nothing about 'no admittance' - but then when all the ways out were barbed wire I realised that was implied. So lost a bit of time 6-7, and again by not cutting the Upper Moor corner.
Then the main route choice leg, I tried to take Nic's line staying S of Three Knolls and going up to Kinderlow Cavern and then round. This was successful but it was really rough at the bottom and then a very steep climb. I think following the E stream all the way up is probably best here because again, if all the ways are going to be walking then the straightest is probably best.
Too far E down from Noe Stool to Jacob's ladder but I have a much better idea of that line now for Trigger. Eventually found the trod about halfway down. Then from 9 on pretty good, went up the spur and hit Brown Knoll dead on, then overtook a few people up South Head and Mount Famine; neither of which I'd been up before so nice to get in a bit of tourism.
Got a bit lost in a field and had to climb another barbed wire fence down to 13.
So significant time lost on 3,4,5,8 and some smaller amounts on 7,9,13. Basically - this would have been an excellent recce! I might come and do it again on a free day. Definitely will attempt next year as I reckon could be 15mins+ faster. Disappointing performance but a nice day out; liked the route.
Saturday Sep 29, 2018 #
Running - Trail race (Fell n Back) 1:32:04 [5] 18.96 km (4:51 / km) +682m 4:07 / km
ahr:152 max:183 shoes: Inov-8 Roclite 290 (grey)
https://fellrunner.org.uk/results.php?id=5330
Excellent to be able to do a lot of the Peak Skyline route in a reasonable temperature. Comparing the times, can't quite believe how slowly I was running on that day!
Good race, very well signed and marshalled, whole thing runnable. Hardest bit was the rocky track uphill straight from the start; struggled here and was probably in about 15th at the top and behind the first two girls. As soon as we got to the downhill though, worked through to 6th place and had 5th in the distance but not getting any closer for the majority of the race.whenever we got to a hill, 7th would pass, and I'd get him back on the down. Then on the last (technical) descent into Goyt's Moss I decided I had to get a gap due to the uphill finish - so I was right on the edge and veering over it on a few occasions, just managed to stay upright but it was a close call. Put about a minute on 7th and caught 5th near the bottom, finally. All the way up the other side I was expecting one or both to come past, but they never did, so I think I was 5th. Pleased with the performance, felt to be running well and the segment times all reflect that.
Excellent to be able to do a lot of the Peak Skyline route in a reasonable temperature. Comparing the times, can't quite believe how slowly I was running on that day!
Good race, very well signed and marshalled, whole thing runnable. Hardest bit was the rocky track uphill straight from the start; struggled here and was probably in about 15th at the top and behind the first two girls. As soon as we got to the downhill though, worked through to 6th place and had 5th in the distance but not getting any closer for the majority of the race.whenever we got to a hill, 7th would pass, and I'd get him back on the down. Then on the last (technical) descent into Goyt's Moss I decided I had to get a gap due to the uphill finish - so I was right on the edge and veering over it on a few occasions, just managed to stay upright but it was a close call. Put about a minute on 7th and caught 5th near the bottom, finally. All the way up the other side I was expecting one or both to come past, but they never did, so I think I was 5th. Pleased with the performance, felt to be running well and the segment times all reflect that.
Thursday Sep 27, 2018 #
Running - Road/Track (Short loop) 32:37 [3] 6.8 km (4:48 / km) +51m 4:37 / km
shoes: Brooks Ravenna 9
Short loop, achilles still not quite ready for road group, aches for the first few km before becoming fine.
Put some effort in for a segment third place, would need to knock another 5s off for the victory which would be some achievement on a 30s sprint. But I'll give it a go next time!
Found a good hill segment to try harder on too.
Put some effort in for a segment third place, would need to knock another 5s off for the victory which would be some achievement on a 30s sprint. But I'll give it a go next time!
Found a good hill segment to try harder on too.
Wednesday Sep 26, 2018 #
Running - Trail (MH Fell Training) 1:22:19 [3] 10.21 km (8:04 / km) +411m 6:43 / km
shoes: Inov-8 Roclite 305
Short slow one tonight, mainly discussing possible transvulcania trip next year.
Tuesday Sep 25, 2018 #
Running - Trail long (Shining Tor and back) 1:41:52 [4] 17.88 km (5:42 / km) +741m 4:43 / km
ahr:146 max:169 shoes: Inov-8 Roclite 305
Seemingly unaffected from yesterday; weird.
Tuesday usually a flat day but it was a nice evening, probably not many left now so had another jaunt up shining tor, this time putting in some effort.
Felt to be running ok on the non hilly bits.
Tuesday usually a flat day but it was a nice evening, probably not many left now so had another jaunt up shining tor, this time putting in some effort.
Felt to be running ok on the non hilly bits.
Monday Sep 24, 2018 #
Note
(sick) (rest day)
Ill overnight :( so just went for a walk today
Sunday Sep 23, 2018 #
Orienteering - Urban race (Lancaster Urban ) 50:23 [5] 10.87 km (4:38 / km) +192m 4:16 / km
ahr:149 max:175 shoes: Brooks Ravenna 9
http://www.sroc.routegadget.co.uk/rg2/#351&cou...
6th but only 2:40 down, quite happy with this.
Neither of us spotted the straight route S of the monument to 24...
---
Good event, no tricks or multilevel, lots of route choice.
Comparing with RP afterwards I got about half of them right:
1-2, West better, I went E, 10s
4-5, West better, ok
6-7, east better but we both missed it
8-9, West better, ok
9-10, east better,ok
10-11 lost time as there were people the way I wanted to go, so tried to go the other two sides of the rectangle, but it wasn't actually a rectangle
12-21 happy with all routes on the intricate legs
22-23 I went south, north better by quite a lot! This should've been obvious especially when I had such a long leg beforehand to think about it
29-30 too focused on catching the woman (by definition not on the same course) and not enough on thinking about exit direction
Well planned, kept me thinking the whole way around, and good mixture of leg lengths and park/campus/urban. Felt to be running ok which is reflected in the result, not too far behind RP and AT. Routegadget should be good.
6th but only 2:40 down, quite happy with this.
Neither of us spotted the straight route S of the monument to 24...
---
Good event, no tricks or multilevel, lots of route choice.
Comparing with RP afterwards I got about half of them right:
1-2, West better, I went E, 10s
4-5, West better, ok
6-7, east better but we both missed it
8-9, West better, ok
9-10, east better,ok
10-11 lost time as there were people the way I wanted to go, so tried to go the other two sides of the rectangle, but it wasn't actually a rectangle
12-21 happy with all routes on the intricate legs
22-23 I went south, north better by quite a lot! This should've been obvious especially when I had such a long leg beforehand to think about it
29-30 too focused on catching the woman (by definition not on the same course) and not enough on thinking about exit direction
Well planned, kept me thinking the whole way around, and good mixture of leg lengths and park/campus/urban. Felt to be running ok which is reflected in the result, not too far behind RP and AT. Routegadget should be good.
Saturday Sep 22, 2018 #
Running - Trail race (Lost Shepherd) 2:05:58 [5] 23.96 km (5:15 / km) +809m 4:30 / km
ahr:147 max:163 shoes: X-talon 212 (blk/flro) - Nov17
http://www.cvfr.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/l...
6th/53
New race. Couldn't interest anyone in the club (sigh; they're all either on holiday, injured, taking their kids to uni or going to uni themselves) which was a shame.
The field was about 60, and no-one went off mentally at the start. Such that after 200m gentle downhill I was in the lead, thinking 'wow,I could win this'). Unfortunately then there was a hill and I remembered about my key weakness.
5th for most of the climb at the start, then dropped to 6th and then 7th by halfway. I felt ok on the climbs, the 2 days rest definitely helped. Whilst I was in 6th, 2nd-5th were all in a pack that made a bit of an error and lost 30s, which would've allowed me to pass them except there were so many of them I assumed they were right and cut across to where they were - only to have them cut back to where I'd been afterwards! Dammit. They soon got away again but the pack began to break up. I dropped into 7th and stayed there for most of the race, being able to see the guys but not getting any closer. One clearly started to struggle and I passed him on the final climb. Then on the last downhill I very very nearly caught Darren for 5th - but not quite. He'd been probably 2 mins ahead and I got that down to 20s, so a valiant effort I think.
Good race, bit of everything. Some bits of track, some flagged pennine way, some bog, some narrow stuff across moorland and through forest. No massively steep ascents; mostly runnable. Perfect running weather too. Would do it again.
6th/53
New race. Couldn't interest anyone in the club (sigh; they're all either on holiday, injured, taking their kids to uni or going to uni themselves) which was a shame.
The field was about 60, and no-one went off mentally at the start. Such that after 200m gentle downhill I was in the lead, thinking 'wow,I could win this'). Unfortunately then there was a hill and I remembered about my key weakness.
5th for most of the climb at the start, then dropped to 6th and then 7th by halfway. I felt ok on the climbs, the 2 days rest definitely helped. Whilst I was in 6th, 2nd-5th were all in a pack that made a bit of an error and lost 30s, which would've allowed me to pass them except there were so many of them I assumed they were right and cut across to where they were - only to have them cut back to where I'd been afterwards! Dammit. They soon got away again but the pack began to break up. I dropped into 7th and stayed there for most of the race, being able to see the guys but not getting any closer. One clearly started to struggle and I passed him on the final climb. Then on the last downhill I very very nearly caught Darren for 5th - but not quite. He'd been probably 2 mins ahead and I got that down to 20s, so a valiant effort I think.
Good race, bit of everything. Some bits of track, some flagged pennine way, some bog, some narrow stuff across moorland and through forest. No massively steep ascents; mostly runnable. Perfect running weather too. Would do it again.
Friday Sep 21, 2018 #
Note
(rest day)
Whenever it's wet I don't mind doing a longer run but a short run always seems like it's just not worth getting everything wet for.
Probably need to do something to overcome this mental weakness before winter.
Good to be well rested before the weekend though; doesn't often happen!
Probably need to do something to overcome this mental weakness before winter.
Good to be well rested before the weekend though; doesn't often happen!
Thursday Sep 20, 2018 #
Note
(rest day)
Excellent decision to rest today; biblical rain forecast later.
Wednesday Sep 19, 2018 #
Running - Trail (MH Fell Training) 2:08:14 [3] 18.08 km (7:06 / km) +665m 5:59 / km
ahr:143 max:170 shoes: Inov-8 Roclite 305
Ran to/from the start pub of the evening; extra 6k on normal distance. Nicer than doing the circuitous drive.
The lactic is still killing me up the hills despite the easy day yesterday, going to have to have a proper rest day.
Only 3 of us in the quick(er) group tonight - winter is coming.
The lactic is still killing me up the hills despite the easy day yesterday, going to have to have a proper rest day.
Only 3 of us in the quick(er) group tonight - winter is coming.
Tuesday Sep 18, 2018 #
Running - Road/Track (Recovery loop) 32:56 [3] 6.47 km (5:05 / km) +44m 4:55 / km
shoes: Brooks Ravenna 9
Flat recovery loop.
6 x fartlek sprints between lampposts on Middlewood way to make it more interesting, before remembering it was supposed to be easy.
6 x fartlek sprints between lampposts on Middlewood way to make it more interesting, before remembering it was supposed to be easy.
Monday Sep 17, 2018 #
Running - Trail (MH Fell Training) 1:40:31 [3] 14.47 km (6:57 / km) +591m 5:46 / km
shoes: Inov-8 Roclite 305
Surprisingly warm evening, 16 degrees. Legs got nothing up the hills. Easy flat day tomorrow required I think.
Three Shires results out;
http://www.amblesideac.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2...
Very happy with 45th!
Three Shires results out;
http://www.amblesideac.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2...
Very happy with 45th!
Sunday Sep 16, 2018 #
Running - Trail race (Stanage Struggle) 45:11 [5] 9.66 km (4:41 / km) +364m 3:56 / km
ahr:147 max:165 shoes: Inov-8 Roclite 290 (grey)
http://www.stanagestruggle.co.uk/StanageStruggleRe...
(Everyone's time in the results is 45s too slow - doubtless someone who ran last year and wants a pb will inform them of this and they'll get corrected at some point...)
----
Incorrectly interpreted the clockwise/anticlockwise direction of the course and so consequently had no real concept of where I was going or how far there was left...
Feeling ok on the flats and downs but quads were wrecked from yesterday and so the ups were pretty poor.so overtaking from the top all the way to the end which was good psychologically, but could definitely do this race faster. Was a reasonable one too, bit of track at the beginning and then technical path up the the edge and first part of descent technical before dropping down through fields to the end.
14th. Somehow ahead of Caitlin today although was expecting her to catch me somewhere on the ascent, she said afterwards we were really close at the top. Dan ahead of me until halfway down, but sneaked past him too. Relatively good Macc turnout on what turned out to be a nice morning. Good cake afterwards too.
(Everyone's time in the results is 45s too slow - doubtless someone who ran last year and wants a pb will inform them of this and they'll get corrected at some point...)
----
Incorrectly interpreted the clockwise/anticlockwise direction of the course and so consequently had no real concept of where I was going or how far there was left...
Feeling ok on the flats and downs but quads were wrecked from yesterday and so the ups were pretty poor.so overtaking from the top all the way to the end which was good psychologically, but could definitely do this race faster. Was a reasonable one too, bit of track at the beginning and then technical path up the the edge and first part of descent technical before dropping down through fields to the end.
14th. Somehow ahead of Caitlin today although was expecting her to catch me somewhere on the ascent, she said afterwards we were really close at the top. Dan ahead of me until halfway down, but sneaked past him too. Relatively good Macc turnout on what turned out to be a nice morning. Good cake afterwards too.
Saturday Sep 15, 2018 #
Running - Trail race (Three Shires AL) 2:28:20 [5] 18.32 km (8:06 / km) +1475m 5:46 / km
shoes: X-talon 210 (orange)
45th/233. Happy with that.
http://www.amblesideac.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2...
They should probably reclassify this as an AM :)
Bright sunshine and not a cloud in the sky at the start left my long sleeves and 3/4 tights looking ridiculous against all the vests and shorts.
Vindicated by the top of Wetherlam, though, as we ascended into the claggy drizzle - and spent the whole of the rest of the race there!
Suddenly no longer regretting my lack of suncream and only taking 500ml; worked out fine.
Took the 'just follow everyone else' approach to nav at the start, unfortunately right on Wetherlam summit everyone had vanished so I followed the path; there's obviously a straighter line that's less rocky since I think I was passed by quite a few here. Not much time lost though; the rocks were so slippery everywhere, and it was so rocky, I wasn't moving fast on any kind of terrain path or not. Luckily seemed to pick a good route down to Three Shires Stone (since couldn't see anyone ahead of me here), but there were suddenly plenty of people going up Blisco so didn't need to nav that bit. Similar coming off the top; that would have been much slower without a pack to stick with. Got away from first lady (wearing British orienteering buff; looked about 14 years old but was presumably at least 18) down the steep bit.
Overtook quite a few up the climb to Lingmoor which was awesome as doesn't usually happen. Then no-one ahead so had to guess a route; compass was useful here to get on a trod going in the right direction. This was the one time in the race that it wasn't rocky and so I was able to run it pretty fast.
To say the terrain didn't really suit me, actually enjoyed this quite a lot, felt very alive running downhill on the wet rocks knowing that every step was a potential disaster waiting to happen. Some amazing views coming off Blisco with floaty bit of cloud everywhere. And although it was rocky, it wasn't Wasdale rocky. I'd do it again.
http://www.amblesideac.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2...
They should probably reclassify this as an AM :)
Bright sunshine and not a cloud in the sky at the start left my long sleeves and 3/4 tights looking ridiculous against all the vests and shorts.
Vindicated by the top of Wetherlam, though, as we ascended into the claggy drizzle - and spent the whole of the rest of the race there!
Suddenly no longer regretting my lack of suncream and only taking 500ml; worked out fine.
Took the 'just follow everyone else' approach to nav at the start, unfortunately right on Wetherlam summit everyone had vanished so I followed the path; there's obviously a straighter line that's less rocky since I think I was passed by quite a few here. Not much time lost though; the rocks were so slippery everywhere, and it was so rocky, I wasn't moving fast on any kind of terrain path or not. Luckily seemed to pick a good route down to Three Shires Stone (since couldn't see anyone ahead of me here), but there were suddenly plenty of people going up Blisco so didn't need to nav that bit. Similar coming off the top; that would have been much slower without a pack to stick with. Got away from first lady (wearing British orienteering buff; looked about 14 years old but was presumably at least 18) down the steep bit.
Overtook quite a few up the climb to Lingmoor which was awesome as doesn't usually happen. Then no-one ahead so had to guess a route; compass was useful here to get on a trod going in the right direction. This was the one time in the race that it wasn't rocky and so I was able to run it pretty fast.
To say the terrain didn't really suit me, actually enjoyed this quite a lot, felt very alive running downhill on the wet rocks knowing that every step was a potential disaster waiting to happen. Some amazing views coming off Blisco with floaty bit of cloud everywhere. And although it was rocky, it wasn't Wasdale rocky. I'd do it again.
Friday Sep 14, 2018 #
Note
(rest day)
I'm not sure that 4 garlic naan and an extraordinary amount of cheese are going to make it onto a Runner's World 'what to eat before a race' list - but they were good.
Thursday Sep 13, 2018 #
Running - Trail (Reservoir loop) 1:02:58 [3] 10.37 km (6:04 / km) +347m 5:12 / km
shoes: Inov-8 Roclite 305
Will have to start with the road group again as soon as my Achilles feels totally fine, but for now enjoying the trails on my own. Nice evening again, and back before dark.
Wednesday Sep 12, 2018 #
Running - Trail (MH Fell Training) 1:28:04 [3] 13.15 km (6:42 / km) +474m 5:40 / km
shoes: Inov-8 Roclite 305
First headtorch run - it gets dark so fast! Got some more new shoes entirely on the strength of liking the 290s so much, and these didn't disappoint, they have a bit more cushioning so will be better for the longer stuff.
Fingers getting really cold by the end, going to have to start taking gloves already; stupid Raynaud's.
Good chats with the club discussing lakes races and fell relay teams.
Fingers getting really cold by the end, going to have to start taking gloves already; stupid Raynaud's.
Good chats with the club discussing lakes races and fell relay teams.
Tuesday Sep 11, 2018 #
Running - Trail (Rainow loop) 33:56 [2] 6.0 km (5:39 / km) +148m 5:02 / km
shoes: Inov-8 Roclite 290 (grey)
Short loop trying to decide what to do on Sunday.
Monday Sep 10, 2018 #
Running - Trail (MH Fell Training) 1:23:29 [3] 12.84 km (6:30 / km) +327m 5:46 / km
shoes: X-talon 212 (blk/flro) - Nov17
Easy recovery club run; didn't even rain!
Sunday Sep 9, 2018 #
Orienteering - Urban race (Hanley) 48:44 [5] 10.56 km (4:37 / km) +185m 4:15 / km
ahr:144 max:163 shoes: Brooks Ravenna 9
3rd/14
https://potoc.co.uk/index.php/results/10-potoc-res...
2.5mins behind Leon. Very straightforward; a few brief hesitations and one unmapped wall on #12, but we're talking maybe 15s over the entire race. Happy, couldn't have done anything more.
https://potoc.co.uk/index.php/results/10-potoc-res...
2.5mins behind Leon. Very straightforward; a few brief hesitations and one unmapped wall on #12, but we're talking maybe 15s over the entire race. Happy, couldn't have done anything more.
Running - Trail long (Gritstone Trail) 2:04:49 [2] 19.44 km (6:25 / km) +754m 5:23 / km
shoes: Inov-8 Roclite 290 (grey)
It's the last day of the 10-week work steps challenge so I wanted to get in as many as possible this weekend.
As it's the Gritstone Grind today, a 35 mile trail race along the Gritstone Trail, thought I'd go and support that (i.e., by running the last 6 miles of it and looking really fresh as I overtook people that had already run 30; I'm sure they loved that).
It's a really nice trail actually, it would be nice to do the race. Some great views from the top, before the horizontal rain (BBC Weather: 0% chance of rain) started.
Great descent down into Lyme Park, then followed some other trails back home, plus a visit to White Nancy. Felt really good for a lot of this which was a bit of a surprise; hips starting to get a bit sore near the end though.
As it's the Gritstone Grind today, a 35 mile trail race along the Gritstone Trail, thought I'd go and support that (i.e., by running the last 6 miles of it and looking really fresh as I overtook people that had already run 30; I'm sure they loved that).
It's a really nice trail actually, it would be nice to do the race. Some great views from the top, before the horizontal rain (BBC Weather: 0% chance of rain) started.
Great descent down into Lyme Park, then followed some other trails back home, plus a visit to White Nancy. Felt really good for a lot of this which was a bit of a surprise; hips starting to get a bit sore near the end though.
Saturday Sep 8, 2018 #
Running - Road/Track race (Parkrun - SouthManchester) 18:38 [5] 5.0 km (3:44 / km) +6m 3:42 / km
shoes: Brooks Ravenna 9
Hard to drag myself out of bed for this, mercifully the rain was only drizzle and barely nothing by the start. Last minute change of venue as the other I was planning had potential to have questionable shoe choice.
This one is mostly good paths but with some fine gravelly stuff which was more difficult than hard surface although it's still a fast one, in spite of the corners. Nevertheless, it was a struggle to run at this pace, it's a while since I've tried. Would be worth another shot when not tired.
This one is mostly good paths but with some fine gravelly stuff which was more difficult than hard surface although it's still a fast one, in spite of the corners. Nevertheless, it was a struggle to run at this pace, it's a while since I've tried. Would be worth another shot when not tired.
Orienteering - Forest race (Hurstwood) 2:04:57 [4] 12.85 km (9:43 / km) +433m 8:19 / km
I did not do well. I mean, I didn't like the map - but that's definitely not the main reason; I was just rubbish.
Really bad start, navigated safely and precisely to where I could see the depression # 1 should be in - no control. Convinced myself I must be somewhere else, went on a nice* tour of the local area, relocated, navigated back to exactly where I was before, all the time thinking "but it can't be there, I've been there already" - only to find the control. It must have been just over the edge of the depression. Lesson - actually go to the feature rather than just looking at it from afar! Again, it's a confidence thing really.
#2 was a bit comical, I was just thinking "gosh I really should have an AP here; it's not like I'm going to stumble upon the control" - and then I stumbled upon the control. #3 was a "hmm, this is very weird path mapping" whereas actually I was on a totally different path - all of this is just lack of practice. Made me realise why I've been doing so much fell running; basically I think I prefer it...
I did have some good legs in the middle where I was navigating pretty well, although after the start it was pretty hard to find much motivation. Plus the weather had been pretty bad although it did clear up and halfway round I was regretting not carrying a bumbag to take off my jacket into. #15 did exactly the same as #1, standing in the right place but the wrong side of a knoll thinking I must be in the wrong place; again, didn't actually go to the feature. I need to learn from my mistakes!
Very confused by the sign saying "Finish" very close to the actual finish; at least I wasn't the only one to make that mistake.
*I won't be rushing back here. It works quite well for short distances, but the long legs over the tussocks were pretty grim. The whole area is basically one giant tussock. Every step was a twisted ankle waiting to happen, so I didn't want to run that fast even on the downhill bits as I've only just got over the last injury!
Really bad start, navigated safely and precisely to where I could see the depression # 1 should be in - no control. Convinced myself I must be somewhere else, went on a nice* tour of the local area, relocated, navigated back to exactly where I was before, all the time thinking "but it can't be there, I've been there already" - only to find the control. It must have been just over the edge of the depression. Lesson - actually go to the feature rather than just looking at it from afar! Again, it's a confidence thing really.
#2 was a bit comical, I was just thinking "gosh I really should have an AP here; it's not like I'm going to stumble upon the control" - and then I stumbled upon the control. #3 was a "hmm, this is very weird path mapping" whereas actually I was on a totally different path - all of this is just lack of practice. Made me realise why I've been doing so much fell running; basically I think I prefer it...
I did have some good legs in the middle where I was navigating pretty well, although after the start it was pretty hard to find much motivation. Plus the weather had been pretty bad although it did clear up and halfway round I was regretting not carrying a bumbag to take off my jacket into. #15 did exactly the same as #1, standing in the right place but the wrong side of a knoll thinking I must be in the wrong place; again, didn't actually go to the feature. I need to learn from my mistakes!
Very confused by the sign saying "Finish" very close to the actual finish; at least I wasn't the only one to make that mistake.
*I won't be rushing back here. It works quite well for short distances, but the long legs over the tussocks were pretty grim. The whole area is basically one giant tussock. Every step was a twisted ankle waiting to happen, so I didn't want to run that fast even on the downhill bits as I've only just got over the last injury!
Friday Sep 7, 2018 #
Running - Trail race (Great Longstone Fell Race) 32:23 [5] 7.34 km (4:25 / km) +261m 3:45 / km
ahr:145 max:162 shoes: Inov-8 Roclite 290 (grey)
Couldn't make it 5/5 - this was slower than last year :(
Only by 14 seconds but still.
Perhaps can blame tiredness in the legs but that's unlikely to have changed from last year! Very similar (good) conditions and no hold ups at stiles and things to blame.
Not a particularly interesting course, good descents but dull ascents. Also because it goes West from the start, first ascent directly into the sun isn't pleasant!
Bit disappointed.
Only by 14 seconds but still.
Perhaps can blame tiredness in the legs but that's unlikely to have changed from last year! Very similar (good) conditions and no hold ups at stiles and things to blame.
Not a particularly interesting course, good descents but dull ascents. Also because it goes West from the start, first ascent directly into the sun isn't pleasant!
Bit disappointed.
Thursday Sep 6, 2018 #
Running - Road/Track (Easy run) 1:06:32 [3] 12.86 km (5:10 / km) +128m 4:56 / km
ahr:134 max:154 shoes: Brooks Ravenna 9
Easy, felt alright. One effort on the viaduct where I assumed there'd be a segment, but there wasn't, so I made one. I imagine it will be full of cyclists since it's on a cycle path, but still.
Achilles remains a bit niggly for about the first mile of all my runs, but it's definitely improving which is great; soon I won't have to take my first few steps gingerly every single time I get up from a chair.
Achilles remains a bit niggly for about the first mile of all my runs, but it's definitely improving which is great; soon I won't have to take my first few steps gingerly every single time I get up from a chair.
Wednesday Sep 5, 2018 #
Running - Trail (MH Fell Training) 1:13:27 [3] 10.01 km (7:20 / km) +416m 6:05 / km
ahr:121 max:144 shoes: X-talon 212 (blk/flro) - Nov17
Fairly steady, getting dark near the end. Good route and nice evening.
Legs are pretty shot at the moment.
Legs are pretty shot at the moment.
Tuesday Sep 4, 2018 #
Running - Trail race (Ilam Fell Race) 41:59 [5] 6.97 km (6:01 / km) +463m 4:31 / km
ahr:146 max:185 shoes: X-talon 210 (orange)
http://www.sportident.co.uk/results/2018/IlamParkF...
9th=
12th at CP at top of 2nd climb (22:00 vs 22:38)
6th= on 2nd half (19:51 vs 21:32)
_____
44:23 last year! 2:24 better. Such a massive improvement I had to check that the distance and climb were the same - they were.
I did remark last year that the grass was wet, which would have made the downhills trickier. It was very dry this year, perfect conditions.
Walked up the first hill this time, and actually no idea either how or why I ran it last time! Walked the second too, but still ran up Thorpe Cloud.
Checking segment times, walking 12s faster over a 7:30 segment so not a lot in it, but legs definitely less jelly for the down.
Similar times on the flats and up Thorpe Cloud, so I must have gained on the downs which is probably largely conditions.
Got outsprinted in the last 20m, decided he cared more than me...although I was trying quite hard.fortunately we are = on the results as I had my own dibber which punches faster and also it was on my finger rather than my wrist #orienteer
Fun race again. Definitely the hardest AS I've done. Massive kudos to my mum for running it as her 5th ish fell race.I don't think she was happy with me afterwards, though :)
9th=
12th at CP at top of 2nd climb (22:00 vs 22:38)
6th= on 2nd half (19:51 vs 21:32)
_____
44:23 last year! 2:24 better. Such a massive improvement I had to check that the distance and climb were the same - they were.
I did remark last year that the grass was wet, which would have made the downhills trickier. It was very dry this year, perfect conditions.
Walked up the first hill this time, and actually no idea either how or why I ran it last time! Walked the second too, but still ran up Thorpe Cloud.
Checking segment times, walking 12s faster over a 7:30 segment so not a lot in it, but legs definitely less jelly for the down.
Similar times on the flats and up Thorpe Cloud, so I must have gained on the downs which is probably largely conditions.
Got outsprinted in the last 20m, decided he cared more than me...although I was trying quite hard.fortunately we are = on the results as I had my own dibber which punches faster and also it was on my finger rather than my wrist #orienteer
Fun race again. Definitely the hardest AS I've done. Massive kudos to my mum for running it as her 5th ish fell race.I don't think she was happy with me afterwards, though :)
Monday Sep 3, 2018 #
Running - Trail (MH Fell Training) 1:32:22 [3] 11.89 km (7:46 / km) +360m 6:45 / km
shoes: X-talon 212 (blk/flro) - Nov17
Relatively flat recovery run, felt tough though, definitely needed an easy day.
Back to wet feet - better get used to it I guess.
Back to wet feet - better get used to it I guess.
Sunday Sep 2, 2018 #
Running - Trail race (Stretton Skyline) 3:12:01 [5] 30.42 km (6:19 / km) +1342m 5:10 / km
ahr:136 max:155 shoes: X-talon 212 (blk/flro) - Nov17
9th
http://docs.google.com/viewer?a=v&pid=sites&am...
____
Very nearly didn't go to this, got back late last night and it was quite a tiring day as it was. Nearly falling asleep on the drive there.
But actually - glad I did. Definitely a race for trail shoes unless it's been really wet - it hadn't. Lots of the route on rocky trails but it wasn't too bad.
Took the first climb gently - possibly too much so because I was struggling to see the people in front of me to be able to follow. Didn't expect to have to get the map out quite as early as I did. As usual, probably trusted others too much near the start but it paid off this time.
Spent most of the race on my own. Someone overtook me at #1 Pole Bank and then one more person just after #2, but I re-passed him at Caer Caradoc and didn't see him again. Caught quite a few going up the final hill.
Found the three steep climbs to the E hard. Went straight up CC rather than round the track which might be slower, but it was nice running along the ridge.
Right decision to carry 1L fluids I think, meant I could drink when I wanted and didn't have to stop. Ate a couple of Clif bars on Ragleth and Lawley which I think helped sustain me to the end.
It was very hot at times, 25°ish. Fine on the tops with the breeze but less so lower down.
http://docs.google.com/viewer?a=v&pid=sites&am...
____
Very nearly didn't go to this, got back late last night and it was quite a tiring day as it was. Nearly falling asleep on the drive there.
But actually - glad I did. Definitely a race for trail shoes unless it's been really wet - it hadn't. Lots of the route on rocky trails but it wasn't too bad.
Took the first climb gently - possibly too much so because I was struggling to see the people in front of me to be able to follow. Didn't expect to have to get the map out quite as early as I did. As usual, probably trusted others too much near the start but it paid off this time.
Spent most of the race on my own. Someone overtook me at #1 Pole Bank and then one more person just after #2, but I re-passed him at Caer Caradoc and didn't see him again. Caught quite a few going up the final hill.
Found the three steep climbs to the E hard. Went straight up CC rather than round the track which might be slower, but it was nice running along the ridge.
Right decision to carry 1L fluids I think, meant I could drink when I wanted and didn't have to stop. Ate a couple of Clif bars on Ragleth and Lawley which I think helped sustain me to the end.
It was very hot at times, 25°ish. Fine on the tops with the breeze but less so lower down.
Saturday Sep 1, 2018 #
Running - Trail race (Longshaw Sheepdog Trials) 44:07 [5] 8.63 km (5:07 / km) +337m 4:17 / km
ahr:152 max:167 shoes: X-talon 210 (orange)
15th
https://www.dpfr.org.uk/results/view/5030
Think this is a pretty good result. Good route as well, although badly signed in places (shouted at by marshal as if I was an idiot; "it's THAT way, you're meant to follow the tapes") - thanks mate, great advice, before you helped I was deliberately ignoring them.
Some of the descents very technical which was great and potential to go faster now I know the course - although definite injury potential.
Watched a full sheepdog attempt for the first time too which was impressive.
Hot day.
https://www.dpfr.org.uk/results/view/5030
Think this is a pretty good result. Good route as well, although badly signed in places (shouted at by marshal as if I was an idiot; "it's THAT way, you're meant to follow the tapes") - thanks mate, great advice, before you helped I was deliberately ignoring them.
Some of the descents very technical which was great and potential to go faster now I know the course - although definite injury potential.
Watched a full sheepdog attempt for the first time too which was impressive.
Hot day.
Walking long (Bleaklow Hike) 7:19:24 [1] 31.11 km (14:07 / km) +719m 12:40 / km
ahr:86 max:131 shoes: Inov-8 Roclite 290 (grey)
With my friend Dave from school. Good to catch up, managed to chat without pause for the entire route and for a few hours in the Thai restaurant after which was impressive, we clearly still get on ok.
Found a fun rock which we first found in our gold dofe but have failed to re-find since. GPS made this significantly easier.
Only remembered about GPS after we had got pretty lost in the middle of Bleaklow, we were at least an hour wading through heather. Fun times.
Found a fun rock which we first found in our gold dofe but have failed to re-find since. GPS made this significantly easier.
Only remembered about GPS after we had got pretty lost in the middle of Bleaklow, we were at least an hour wading through heather. Fun times.