Training Log Archive: nmulder

0922 - Second time we've used Doornpoort, unfortunately they're still including the big hill in the middle as part of the course.

Had a fast start and caught Alex (6 min) and Jeremy (3 min) at # 2. That was because the control was hung in the wrong place. They snuck out of there whilst I was searching else where. Found it eventually, but then the gap was back to 3 min on Jeremy. All's fair I suppose.

Caught Alex at #4, where we were both thrown by a new track not on the map. Together to #5, then Alex stopped to pull out a thorn when we took different routes to #6. One this route I had a fall after a lady on the track ahead jumped out of my way... then promptly jumped back in as I came past. I fell onto some rocks on the side of the path. Results were torn map, broken compass (2nd one in 2 weekends) and one helluva bruise on my right leg below the hip (piriformus?). This was problematic as the pain hampered my running stride and Doornpoort is probably the most important map in S.A. for use of compass bearings.

Kept going however and managed (a bit by luck) to ace #6 and #7. Then long leg up the hill, acing the next two. On top we had our 2nd misplaced control, which was about 80m too early. I didn't see it out of the corner of my eye as we ran past on the path as I wasn't at my AP yet. Spent the next 6 minutes searching (with ability to take back-bearings) before the search group got into the area and we were called in by someone.

My leg had stiffened up here, so it was tough to the next control going off the hill. Little wobble near the control. Then we hit the flat thorny bushveld areas. Probably the nicest part of the map, but I found myself meandering as I ran from feature to feature rather than on compass. Probably lost a lot of time here as I was forced to use a few long line features for back-bearings. Luckily no major mistakes around this section and into the finish.

Despite the 2 big problems and the slower speed after the fall, I still managed 1st as everyone else had problems at the same controls and a few additional sites. It was good planning, so a pity about the 2 wrong control placements. Area also still has a lot to offer with a more complete / detailed map.

Map and route below:

From Orienteering Maps

C • number 10 4

0830 - Ran the Dome Run trail at Thabela Thabeng in prep for next weeks trail race. Took it very easy, lost the path on numerous occassions and also did some scouting on side trails.

1300 - More scouting at Thabela Thabeng. This was a trail run loop in prep for the AR sprint.

1400 - Did two loops of mountain biking for the Sprint AR. 1 easy loop, 1 tough loop. Did lots of scouting of various options, so it was long and slow. Unfortunately a short hike-a-bike is unavoidable. Fast downhill section towards the end. Av 13.6 Mx 52.1

The strapping of my helmet disintegated. Damn! Unrepairable, so will need to buy a new one. MTB shoes have also collapsed.

0730 - Short run around Berario.

1030 - Once again along Lake Lauerz. Out and back along the road next to the lake from the Ice Rink. Really enjoyable.

C • given up on the blog? 3

1700 - The start of the new AR season.

5km of roller blading along a nice quiet path along the side of the Lauerzsee. New roller blades that are 100 times better than the old ones.

Wake up early after a late last night. Too little sleep. Too much travelling.