Saturday, September 29, 2007
Pony Trekking!
I'm off to the wilds of the North York Moors today with my mum as we are meeting older sis there and going for a day's pony trekking tomorrow! Should be good fun, I have elected to drive as mum is concerned that she won't be able to move her legs afterwards.
I've had quite a good week this week training wise... Monday I did the slow, easy recovery run of 4 1/2 miles, Tuesday I went out on the bike for an hour, Wednesday I ran 8 1/2 miles- the first time since hurting my Achilles at Easter. My Achilles was absolutely fine!
Had a good workout at the gym Thursday night; I ran for 35 minutes, concentrating on 6.3mph and 6.5 mph but also running up to 8 mph as I think that using the treadmill for speed sessions is working. I did my usual on the ellipticals and the strength training, but increased the resistance on the stepper, went back on the ellipticals for 13 minutes resistance work and walked on the treadmill at incline. Phew! It just seemed quite effortless.
I'd like to know, however, why some days, when I run, it seems effortless- I'm floating along, wind in my hair, body working like it should, breathing great etc etc, and other days it's an effort to run down the road, everything aches and I'm puffing and blowing like a knackered locomotive!! (like today...)
I had a rest day yesterday, went to Burger King (naughty naughty) with my mate, who's been poorly.
Just about to go and pack, but I have been out for a gentle 5 miler this morning and then about 25 minutes on my stepper...
I guess horse riding may be some form of training, although admittedly more for the horse than me!
I've had quite a good week this week training wise... Monday I did the slow, easy recovery run of 4 1/2 miles, Tuesday I went out on the bike for an hour, Wednesday I ran 8 1/2 miles- the first time since hurting my Achilles at Easter. My Achilles was absolutely fine!
Had a good workout at the gym Thursday night; I ran for 35 minutes, concentrating on 6.3mph and 6.5 mph but also running up to 8 mph as I think that using the treadmill for speed sessions is working. I did my usual on the ellipticals and the strength training, but increased the resistance on the stepper, went back on the ellipticals for 13 minutes resistance work and walked on the treadmill at incline. Phew! It just seemed quite effortless.
I'd like to know, however, why some days, when I run, it seems effortless- I'm floating along, wind in my hair, body working like it should, breathing great etc etc, and other days it's an effort to run down the road, everything aches and I'm puffing and blowing like a knackered locomotive!! (like today...)
I had a rest day yesterday, went to Burger King (naughty naughty) with my mate, who's been poorly.
Just about to go and pack, but I have been out for a gentle 5 miler this morning and then about 25 minutes on my stepper...
I guess horse riding may be some form of training, although admittedly more for the horse than me!
Labels: gym, Pony Trekking, running
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
(Very) Cross Training...
There is a duathlon fairly nearby on October (some kind soul clipped the details under my wipers whilst I was running through fields on Sunday) which I'd quite like to do...
Also I am thinking of the benefits of cross training, so had carefully planned a 1 hour bike ride into my schedule for this evening... I had a later finish at work so resolve to get home, grab the bike from the understairs cupboard, pump up the tyres and go...
Ok, here's what really happened...
Get home
Grab bike out from cupboard
Feel tyres. Too soft. Grab bike pump
Pump front tyre
Pump back tyre. It is now slightly less soft but not much
Try to get more air in. Fail
Head out anyway
Realise back tyre is actually far too soft
Head back home and grab pump
Connect pump to valve and manage to let out all remaining air in the tyre
Swear loudly
Try again. The tyre refuses to accept any air whatsoever
Chuck bike on floor
Try again. Same result
Chuck bike on the floor
Realise pump is broken
Chuck pump on the floor
Throw bike into house, walk to Mum's and borrow her bike
Ride for an hour! Schedule completed...
Also I am thinking of the benefits of cross training, so had carefully planned a 1 hour bike ride into my schedule for this evening... I had a later finish at work so resolve to get home, grab the bike from the understairs cupboard, pump up the tyres and go...
Ok, here's what really happened...
Get home
Grab bike out from cupboard
Feel tyres. Too soft. Grab bike pump
Pump front tyre
Pump back tyre. It is now slightly less soft but not much
Try to get more air in. Fail
Head out anyway
Realise back tyre is actually far too soft
Head back home and grab pump
Connect pump to valve and manage to let out all remaining air in the tyre
Swear loudly
Try again. The tyre refuses to accept any air whatsoever
Chuck bike on floor
Try again. Same result
Chuck bike on the floor
Realise pump is broken
Chuck pump on the floor
Throw bike into house, walk to Mum's and borrow her bike
Ride for an hour! Schedule completed...
Labels: Cross training, cycling
Monday, September 24, 2007
Event Report; The Crossdale 10k
Yesterday was the Crossdale 10k, at Keyworth, which is a small village in Nottinghamshire, fairly near to where I work, so didn't take that long to get to.
I knew the route went across fields and along tracks, but should have known what to expect when I passed signs for the Crossdale 'Trail Run' as I neared Keyworth. The even started and finished at Crossdale Primary School; in fact, the proceeds from the event went towards the school.
There were quite a few people there; I passed the t-shirt stall; there was a free t-shirt for completing the run, and they looked quite smart, black and white. I noticed that there was a huge pile of medium and large, but only a tiny pile of small ones, which was a bummer as I figured that by the time I got back, they'd be all gone and I'd be left with one I could only feasibly wear as a night shirt. I hung around the stall for a while until another runner came up and asked the women behind the stall if she could collect her t-shirt now. They gave her one and marked her race number, so I followed her example and secured a Small. (That gave me a bit of a boost actually as 3 years ago I would have been wondering whether a large would have hidden by body- that is, if I'd managed to run 6 miles at all!)
I was quite early so had a mooch around, passing several runners stretching, including one bizarrely doing a kind of yoga 'downwards facing dog' style. I noticed that the teachers had obviously got the kids involved in making a kind of Tibetan style wishing tree- whereby a ribbon is tied to a tree branch and a wish made. The kids had written their 'wishes', laminated them and hung them on, so I took the time to read a few. Among more predictable ones like 'I wish thatpeople didn't fight each other' and 'I wish that somebody could help all the people who are poor', one little lad had written 'I hope that my rat will be alright and that my Grandad will be alright'. Talk about getting his priorities right!
The start of the race was partway down a field, and was quite a steep downhill. Judging by the comments, it was suddenly dawning on folks that we would have to run back up it at the finish. I stayed near the back, just ahead of the fun runners massing for their start 10 minutes later.
At 10am we were off down the field; I realised I was at the back, but overtook a few folks. We passed under a railway bridge and through more fields, which were rather rutted so required more care. We turned off the field and onto an undulating track, passing under the railway again, before picking up a bridleway running along the field edge; I had to watch where I was putting my feet. The water point came at about 4k, but I only managed 3 gulps on the run. We turned down a tarmac track as part of a loop, and just before halfway the route turned back on itself before heading back round to the water point. My legs were starting to feel quite tired and my stomach was churning a bit; I actually felt a little queasy which worried me. The returning runners were passing us, and I turned at the turning point into the full force of the wind.
Another stretch of tarmac after a farm brought us to the road; we were directed along the grass verge back to the water point where I caught up with a lady and slowed to allow myself a few gulps. I must say, there were lots of marshalls and they were all very encouraging.
We were back on the same route we took out; I overtook the lady and headed down the bridleway. We were now going slightly downhill and I realised I felt much better. My legs were still rather tired but the queasiness had gone. I hit the track and immediately faced a climb. There were runners in front of me, but I couldn't catch them. Just after the 8k marker it was time to turn back through the rutted fields. A couple of blokes hared past, obviously putting a last minute spurt on, but I didn't feel capable of doing the same! All thoughts of a PB went out of the window as it was the toughest 10k I'd done.
Just after the 9k marker we passed under the bridge, and soon after were faced with the climb up to the finish. What a climb, I swear it's the toughest I've yet experienced on a run! It was horribly steep; I tried to keep a running motion, but probably wasn't moving faster than a walk. I was convinced I was going to throw up, and just hoped I could hold onto breakfast long enough to get me past the crowds of cheering kids.
It did actually taper off at the finish, and as I turned towards the line I realised with a shock that the clock was counting 58 minutes- no, that couldn't be right, my PB was 59 minutes something! I actually crossed the line in 58 minutes and 56 seconds- I PB'd over that course which was amazing. I must be getting a bit faster- maybe the treadmill strategy is paying off!
The other thing I was pleased about was the complete lack of Achilles trouble! In fact I came home and put in 50 minutes on my cross trainer! Looking at the results, I came 161st out of a field of 193, not too bad for me!
I have made a decision to enter the Turkey Trot rather than the 50 mile Round Rotherham. I think that it may be a mistake to up the distances to 50 miles this soon, especially when I am still building up the length of my runs after my Achilles problems. I think that what I will do, it to concentrate on maintaining the 26 mile in a day or so challenge walks and build up the running to half marathon.
Then next year I will up the mileage and get in some 50 mile events and hopefully be able to run/ walk them. This is my reasoning anyway... I'm not copping out!!
I knew the route went across fields and along tracks, but should have known what to expect when I passed signs for the Crossdale 'Trail Run' as I neared Keyworth. The even started and finished at Crossdale Primary School; in fact, the proceeds from the event went towards the school.
There were quite a few people there; I passed the t-shirt stall; there was a free t-shirt for completing the run, and they looked quite smart, black and white. I noticed that there was a huge pile of medium and large, but only a tiny pile of small ones, which was a bummer as I figured that by the time I got back, they'd be all gone and I'd be left with one I could only feasibly wear as a night shirt. I hung around the stall for a while until another runner came up and asked the women behind the stall if she could collect her t-shirt now. They gave her one and marked her race number, so I followed her example and secured a Small. (That gave me a bit of a boost actually as 3 years ago I would have been wondering whether a large would have hidden by body- that is, if I'd managed to run 6 miles at all!)
I was quite early so had a mooch around, passing several runners stretching, including one bizarrely doing a kind of yoga 'downwards facing dog' style. I noticed that the teachers had obviously got the kids involved in making a kind of Tibetan style wishing tree- whereby a ribbon is tied to a tree branch and a wish made. The kids had written their 'wishes', laminated them and hung them on, so I took the time to read a few. Among more predictable ones like 'I wish thatpeople didn't fight each other' and 'I wish that somebody could help all the people who are poor', one little lad had written 'I hope that my rat will be alright and that my Grandad will be alright'. Talk about getting his priorities right!
The start of the race was partway down a field, and was quite a steep downhill. Judging by the comments, it was suddenly dawning on folks that we would have to run back up it at the finish. I stayed near the back, just ahead of the fun runners massing for their start 10 minutes later.
At 10am we were off down the field; I realised I was at the back, but overtook a few folks. We passed under a railway bridge and through more fields, which were rather rutted so required more care. We turned off the field and onto an undulating track, passing under the railway again, before picking up a bridleway running along the field edge; I had to watch where I was putting my feet. The water point came at about 4k, but I only managed 3 gulps on the run. We turned down a tarmac track as part of a loop, and just before halfway the route turned back on itself before heading back round to the water point. My legs were starting to feel quite tired and my stomach was churning a bit; I actually felt a little queasy which worried me. The returning runners were passing us, and I turned at the turning point into the full force of the wind.
Another stretch of tarmac after a farm brought us to the road; we were directed along the grass verge back to the water point where I caught up with a lady and slowed to allow myself a few gulps. I must say, there were lots of marshalls and they were all very encouraging.
We were back on the same route we took out; I overtook the lady and headed down the bridleway. We were now going slightly downhill and I realised I felt much better. My legs were still rather tired but the queasiness had gone. I hit the track and immediately faced a climb. There were runners in front of me, but I couldn't catch them. Just after the 8k marker it was time to turn back through the rutted fields. A couple of blokes hared past, obviously putting a last minute spurt on, but I didn't feel capable of doing the same! All thoughts of a PB went out of the window as it was the toughest 10k I'd done.
Just after the 9k marker we passed under the bridge, and soon after were faced with the climb up to the finish. What a climb, I swear it's the toughest I've yet experienced on a run! It was horribly steep; I tried to keep a running motion, but probably wasn't moving faster than a walk. I was convinced I was going to throw up, and just hoped I could hold onto breakfast long enough to get me past the crowds of cheering kids.
It did actually taper off at the finish, and as I turned towards the line I realised with a shock that the clock was counting 58 minutes- no, that couldn't be right, my PB was 59 minutes something! I actually crossed the line in 58 minutes and 56 seconds- I PB'd over that course which was amazing. I must be getting a bit faster- maybe the treadmill strategy is paying off!
The other thing I was pleased about was the complete lack of Achilles trouble! In fact I came home and put in 50 minutes on my cross trainer! Looking at the results, I came 161st out of a field of 193, not too bad for me!
I have made a decision to enter the Turkey Trot rather than the 50 mile Round Rotherham. I think that it may be a mistake to up the distances to 50 miles this soon, especially when I am still building up the length of my runs after my Achilles problems. I think that what I will do, it to concentrate on maintaining the 26 mile in a day or so challenge walks and build up the running to half marathon.
Then next year I will up the mileage and get in some 50 mile events and hopefully be able to run/ walk them. This is my reasoning anyway... I'm not copping out!!
Labels: 10k, Crossdale 10k, Turkey Trot
Saturday, September 22, 2007
Update!
Well, I've had a quite easy week after the Ponton Plod; I used my stepper for about 30 mins Tuesday, ran a fairly slow 7 1/2 miles Wednesday and hit the gym Thursday. I have a 10k race tomorrow, the Crossdale 10, which should be interesting as it's a cross country route!
Because of this, I only did 2 miles on the treadmill, doing some 'Fartlek' faster bursts. I am using the treadmill for faster running and the outside for slower distance runs! Also did some resistance on the elliptical trainer after my usual warm up.
My colleague has told me about a fairly local half marathon, which I think I'll consider; The Turkey Trot. Apparently the winner gets a turkey; I'd be lucky to get a mince pie!
Because of this, I only did 2 miles on the treadmill, doing some 'Fartlek' faster bursts. I am using the treadmill for faster running and the outside for slower distance runs! Also did some resistance on the elliptical trainer after my usual warm up.
My colleague has told me about a fairly local half marathon, which I think I'll consider; The Turkey Trot. Apparently the winner gets a turkey; I'd be lucky to get a mince pie!
Labels: Crossdale 10k, Turkey Trot
Monday, September 17, 2007
The Ponton Plod
Buckminster Water TowerI completed the Ponton Plod yesterday- a 27 mile walk around the Grantham area. I managed not to get a speeding ticket on the way over, and got to the starting point at Great Ponton village in plenty of time to buy a round of toast and jam. This is a fairly new challenge walk, only the second year it's been held, so there wasn't a big field. There was a shorter route of 17 miles which most had opted for, with about 35 doing the full route.
As we set off, it was apparent that most of them were runners, and quickly left me in their dust! We were very lucky with the weather, it was dry and mostly sunny, and turned very warm in the afternoon.
Great Ponton is right next to the A1, so at the start we had to cross it using a footbridge. Good bridleway tracks took us through a golf course and through the estates of a large country house currently being restored. The routes split here, most opting for the 17 mile route (they don't know what they're missing!!) After passing an ornamental lake, we walked through the sandstone village of Stoke Rochford before a mile of road walking. As most of the route is in Lincolnshire, it is fairly gentle with some climbs but nothing too taxing.
We passed through Skillington before taking a track leading to Buckminster water tower. Last year it seemed endless, but this year I was prepared for it so it wasn't too bad! I stopped to take a photo of the water tower (above), and decided to jog to the check point just past it. Justas I nearly got there, I went to check my route description... to find I hadn't got it anymore! Thinking I must have dropped it where I took the photo, I ran back to the spot and luckily it was there- it was quite windy so got knows what I would have done had it blown away!
Cursing myself I ran back- again- to the check point and had some cake and a banana, whilst some other folks checked in.
The next part of the route followed the Mowbray Way, and went across fields to Sproxton village. The terrain was quite interesting; it is a very agricultural area so there was lots of walking through ploughed fields and very uneven ground. Good training though for different types of terrain that could be encountered on the MdS!
Glider Being Towed, Near SproxtonThe next bit of the route took us past gallops (being used by a lone horseman) and past an isolated church. There must have been a motorbike ralley on, as they could be heard for miles. When the route left the road and climbed uphill, I could just make them out in a nearby field.
The route reached the pretty little village of Saltby and turned down a hidden footpath (which I walked straight by last year). The countryside was lovely here, wide open fields, lots of little woods and ponds.
Ponds Near Saltby The halfway point was a little further on, after an extremely rutted track and more ploughed field walking, at Croxton Kerrial Village Hall. There was a lady marshalling the crossing point over the main A607 Melton to Grantham road, and her grandson directed me to the hall, he seemed quite proud of his responsibilities and told me he recognised me from last year, which is slightly worrying!
There was substantial food here, sandwiches, malt loaf, mini mars bars etc, plus a very welcome cup of coffee. A couple came in and joined me, the lady walks regularly with the Lincolnshire LDWA group. Apparently there were three others being us, a chap and two girls; they all came in whilst I was there.
It was a bit of a wrench leaving but I left just ahead of the others. The route was quite undulating from here, and once it reached Harston there was more road walking to reach Sewstern Lane. This is an ancient track, but instead of going down here we turned onto a cycle track following the course of an old railway. It made for some easier walking.
Once at Denton, the route took us up to Denton Reservoir, sparkling in the sun.
Denton ReservoirMore big field walking brought us to the village of Harlaxton, where there was another check pint and cuppa! It was really warm at this point and I was feeling a little dehydrated. My legs had also started to ache a bit, but nothing too serious.
After the check point, there was quite a sustained climb, with a great view back over the crop fields to Harlaxton. I remember looking back for signs of other walkers, and feeling surprised thatI couldn't spot anybody, but looking at the photo I can clearly see four others starting the climb! (may be a bit small to spot here though!)
Looking Back To HarlaxtonThere was another bit of road walking before another footpath through field filled with loads of timid sheep, including a much heavier, thickset breed I'd not seen before.
The last checkpoint was at Wyville, a small hamlet boasting a church, couple of houses and not much else. I was asked how many were behind me, and replied five, but was then told that there were eleven people unaccounted for!
I left the check point, wanting to finish. The last bit of the route was gently undulating and finished on bridleways; I amazed myself by actually jogging most of the last mile!
Footbridge Over The A1The meal at the finish was soup- parsnip and apple, which was surprisingly tasty- and apple pie and custard, which really hit the spot. I heard that all walkers had now been accounted for, and the five who were behind me arrived.
My time was 8 hours 21 minutes- 22 minutes quicker than last year's time so I'm quite chuffed with that! I was a little stiff afterwards, and am today, but not too bad. I treated myself to a light pack, so was only carrying waterproofs and two small bottles of drink.
All in all- good day and good result!
Labels: Challenge walks, Ponton Plod
Saturday, September 15, 2007
Saturday...
I've been quite easy on myself this week, what with not being well. Went to the gym Thursday, and probably did a bit too much, as I felt knackered afterwards; I ran my usual 3 miles, plus 20 minutes on the stepper and ellipticals, round of weights and back on the treadmill for walking on incline.
So I had a rest day yesterday and went out for a meal in the evening with my mate- so taxing!
Actually, it was quite a cheap night out, as we were walking back to my car and I spotted something on the ground. You know how sometimes you convince yourself it's a fiver and it turns out to be a sweet wrapper or something... well, I don't know what made me pick it up, but it turned out to be two fivers folded together!
There was nobody around, and we reckoned that if we were to hand it in, the staff would probably pocket it anyway, so I split it and we had a fiver each, which was very welcome.
I have just walked a fairly brisk 6 miles, and have the 27 mile Ponton Plod tomorrow. I am thinking of being kind to my poor old body and taking a light pack; if I remember rightly from last year, there will be rolls, cake, coffee etc half way round so no need to take much.
I am going to try not to get a speeding ticket this year too- got flashed by a camera in Melton Mowbray on my way to last year's event!
So I had a rest day yesterday and went out for a meal in the evening with my mate- so taxing!
Actually, it was quite a cheap night out, as we were walking back to my car and I spotted something on the ground. You know how sometimes you convince yourself it's a fiver and it turns out to be a sweet wrapper or something... well, I don't know what made me pick it up, but it turned out to be two fivers folded together!
There was nobody around, and we reckoned that if we were to hand it in, the staff would probably pocket it anyway, so I split it and we had a fiver each, which was very welcome.
I have just walked a fairly brisk 6 miles, and have the 27 mile Ponton Plod tomorrow. I am thinking of being kind to my poor old body and taking a light pack; if I remember rightly from last year, there will be rolls, cake, coffee etc half way round so no need to take much.
I am going to try not to get a speeding ticket this year too- got flashed by a camera in Melton Mowbray on my way to last year's event!
Labels: gym, Ponton Plod, walking
Thursday, September 13, 2007
Feeling Better
Mike has a great 'You tube' video on his blog which sums up the experience that is MdS, and is definately worth seeing...
It has motivated me to stop whining about my headache and get my arse down to the gym!!
It has motivated me to stop whining about my headache and get my arse down to the gym!!
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
Sick...
I'm not at work today, felt off all day yesterday and woke up with a headache and sick/ dizzy feeling. I rang my mum and told her, only to get the "Don't you think you're overdoing it? You are doing a lot of exercise... you are nearly 40 now you know..." Thanks mum, that makes me feel so much better!!
I have had quite an easy week after the long walk though; I went to the gym again Sunday and although I covered the usual 3 miles on the treadmill at 6.1 mph, 6.3 mph and 6.5 mph, plus usual weights and resistance work on the elliptical trainer, I didn't go overboard.
I am stiff still from Saturday though, as I had a riding lesson with my mum, who has recently started as she has always liked horses but never had proper lessons. We were only walking and trotting but she reckons I wore her out as she doesn't usually do that much trotting! It may seem as though the horse is doing most of the work, but doesn't half get the muscles you don't normally use! We are going on a day's hacking (riding out in the countryside) with older sis at the end of the month, probably won't be able to walk for a week afterwards!
I have also walked, plus ran my cross country route of 5 1/2 miles on Saturday. Total weekly mileage, running and walking, was about 16 miles, but the week before, it was around 45! I was going to go for a longer run tonight, but think I may put it off til tomorrow night now. I suppose I should just take it easy today... now I'm old!
I have had quite an easy week after the long walk though; I went to the gym again Sunday and although I covered the usual 3 miles on the treadmill at 6.1 mph, 6.3 mph and 6.5 mph, plus usual weights and resistance work on the elliptical trainer, I didn't go overboard.
I am stiff still from Saturday though, as I had a riding lesson with my mum, who has recently started as she has always liked horses but never had proper lessons. We were only walking and trotting but she reckons I wore her out as she doesn't usually do that much trotting! It may seem as though the horse is doing most of the work, but doesn't half get the muscles you don't normally use! We are going on a day's hacking (riding out in the countryside) with older sis at the end of the month, probably won't be able to walk for a week afterwards!
I have also walked, plus ran my cross country route of 5 1/2 miles on Saturday. Total weekly mileage, running and walking, was about 16 miles, but the week before, it was around 45! I was going to go for a longer run tonight, but think I may put it off til tomorrow night now. I suppose I should just take it easy today... now I'm old!
Labels: gym, horse riding, illness
Wednesday, September 05, 2007
Jane Tomlinson
I was really sad to hear of the death of Jane Tomlinson yesterday. Despite being diagnosed with terminal cancer, she battled on and completed some amazing feats of endurance, including an Ironman Triathlon and bike ride across America, despite being in intense pain most of the time.
Kind of makes the MdS seem almost a walk in the park by comparison (I did say almost!) and makes me feel that I ought to appreciate my health, and strength, and the opportunity I have to undertake the challenges I have so far and have planned for the future.
We never know what's in store for us around the corner, and it was when Jane found out that she was dying that she was inspired to challenge herself and undertake some amazing achievements.
Makes me think that if there is anything we want to do in life, we should just go for it and not put things off; if we don't 'just do it', we might never get the chance!
RIP Jane, you are an inspiration.
Kind of makes the MdS seem almost a walk in the park by comparison (I did say almost!) and makes me feel that I ought to appreciate my health, and strength, and the opportunity I have to undertake the challenges I have so far and have planned for the future.
We never know what's in store for us around the corner, and it was when Jane found out that she was dying that she was inspired to challenge herself and undertake some amazing achievements.
Makes me think that if there is anything we want to do in life, we should just go for it and not put things off; if we don't 'just do it', we might never get the chance!
RIP Jane, you are an inspiration.
Labels: Jane Tomlinson
Mid Week Update
I'm quite happy with my recovery from the Charnwood Round, just had a slight ache where my pack had rested yesterday, and today I'm ache free.
The soles of my feet are still slightly sore though... funny enough, whilst I was doing my walk I thought it felt as though the bottom of my socks had worn away and my feet were rubbing unprotected against my shoes, but dismissed it as one of those imaginary feelings you tend to get, such as a small piece of grit in your shoe feeling like a boulder, or that feeling where a blister feels as though it has taken over the whole of your heel when it's the size of a drawing pin head.
When I took my socks off though, there were two large, perfect holes where the ball of the foot would have been... oops, think I need new socks!
I have decided against doing the Chatsworth Challenge this Sunday as originally intended as
The soles of my feet are still slightly sore though... funny enough, whilst I was doing my walk I thought it felt as though the bottom of my socks had worn away and my feet were rubbing unprotected against my shoes, but dismissed it as one of those imaginary feelings you tend to get, such as a small piece of grit in your shoe feeling like a boulder, or that feeling where a blister feels as though it has taken over the whole of your heel when it's the size of a drawing pin head.
When I took my socks off though, there were two large, perfect holes where the ball of the foot would have been... oops, think I need new socks!
I have decided against doing the Chatsworth Challenge this Sunday as originally intended as
- I am doing the Ponton Plod on the following Sunday (16th) and though that undertaking three long walks on three consecutive weekends may be a little too much at this stage
- I, erm, missed the entry deadline...
I have this week off, so am trying to catch up with a few bits and bobs, it's amazing how much time working and training takes out of your day... I know I've said it before, but I really haven't got time to go to work, it really gets in the way of other things I'd rather be doing with my time!
Labels: Ponton Plod, recovery
Monday, September 03, 2007
The Charnwood Round
I decided against doing the Bullock Smithy Hike this weekend as a; it's a massive jump up in distance with quite a tough route, b; there is navigation work involved, and I'm notoriously sh*te at using a compass and c; I would have struggled to get there.
So I instead opted for the Charnwood Round anytime challenge walk I picked up a few years ago, and have been meaning to do ever since. There are opportunities for shortening the route, but I opted to do the full 33 miles. As there would be no check points, I had to take my own water and food- 3 litres of water, a lucozade drink and flask of coffee, so my pack was quite heavy (although it did lighten as the day went on!)
The route starts at Newtown Linford, a pretty stone village at the end of Bradgate Park (childhood home of Lady Jane Grey). It was a lovely morning as I left the village and walked through the fields, the dew soaked my running shoes. I decided to wear these as wearing walking boots over this kind of distance just knackers my feet.
Field near Newtown Linford
This was part of the Charnwood Marathon I did in March, but in reverse. I made my way up the road to the impressive ruins of Ulverscroft Priory (much of which were under some kind of plastic covering).
Ulverscroft Priory
From here, the route went through the busy hamlet of Copt Oak before a long gradual ascent towards Bardon Hill.
Old Rise Rocks 
Longcliffe Hall
Beacon Hill And The 'Devil's Profile'
So I instead opted for the Charnwood Round anytime challenge walk I picked up a few years ago, and have been meaning to do ever since. There are opportunities for shortening the route, but I opted to do the full 33 miles. As there would be no check points, I had to take my own water and food- 3 litres of water, a lucozade drink and flask of coffee, so my pack was quite heavy (although it did lighten as the day went on!)
The route starts at Newtown Linford, a pretty stone village at the end of Bradgate Park (childhood home of Lady Jane Grey). It was a lovely morning as I left the village and walked through the fields, the dew soaked my running shoes. I decided to wear these as wearing walking boots over this kind of distance just knackers my feet.
Field near Newtown LinfordThis was part of the Charnwood Marathon I did in March, but in reverse. I made my way up the road to the impressive ruins of Ulverscroft Priory (much of which were under some kind of plastic covering).
Ulverscroft PrioryFrom here, the route went through the busy hamlet of Copt Oak before a long gradual ascent towards Bardon Hill.
Old Rise RocksI didn't go up the the summit of Bardon Hill (it was off route and not part of the mileage). Although it's the highest point in Leicestershire, there were apparently paths leading over the summit and a large deer park at one time. Now, sadly, it's just a shell as most of it has been quarried away. From the trig point marking the summit, the view beyond is just vast expanses of quarry.
I made my way through the edge of Coalville and up through the lovely permissive path over the rocky Warren Hills. As I stopped for a coffee and biscuit (bit of luxury!) it clouded over which was a shame. The route then dropped down to Mount St Bernard's Abbey, which is a modern order so still in use. The route takes an 8 mile loop back to this point, so I set off over Blackbrook Reservoir and up to the woods and deserted railway track near Shepshed. I remembered that there has recently been a (genuine!) panther sighting here by an off duty policeman out running.
The route then dropped down by the furthest point of the reservoir, and it was here I saw something strange; a dead fox, but twisted as though it had died in agony. Bits of it had been torn away and it had been mostly eaten, down to the bone on tail and paws. I'd never seen anything like this before, could have been a dog but you never know...
I stopped for lunch in a field and then had a mile of road walking. This was new territory for me so was quite interesting, although I nearly missed the next footpath. This took me through woods, I was a bit concerned as there were lots of different paths leading off, but I used my judgment and emerged on the road in the right place!
The route touched the town of Whitwick before turning back towards Mount St Bernard's Abbey; the path skirted a quarry, apparently there was a volcano here which erupted over 570 million years ago, and they are blasting the original core.
Once back at the Abbey there was a mile of road walking to the tiny hamlet of Oaks In Charnwood, before a climb to the top of Lubcloud. It was quite windy at this point and started to spit with rain, but didn't come to anything. This was also part of the Charnwood Marathon, and I dropped down to walk under the M1 before climbing to the road to Nanpantan. This wasn't very pleasant as it was road walking, and it's amazing the number of cars who refuse to slow down or move over at all for walkers!
A permissive path I'd not used before took me over a small, rocky promontory called Buck Hill, which had quite impressive views over Loughborough and Longcliffe Hall.
Longcliffe HallA walk along the ridge and descent and trudge along the valley floor brought me to the ascent to Beacon Hill. My legs were aching a bit at this point, and once I'd climbed to the trig point, I rested for a few minutes and ate my remaining roll. A long gradual descent (which I jogged) took me to Woodhouse Eaves, where I met an old gentleman pushing his bike. He explained he couldn't make the hill, as he'd done half an hour on his rowing machine as well, and asked me how far I was walking. He seemed amazed when I told him!
Beacon Hill And The 'Devil's Profile'A nice easy route took me through Woodhouse to Quorn, the whole route to Bradgate Park was now following the Charnwood Marathon route in reverse. The path from Quorn follows the stream and is quite narrow, and I was most preturbed to round a bend and come face to face with a massive red and white bull with large horns, right in the middle of the path! Luckily it was very docile, and just watch me.
As I reached Swithland woods, it started to rain. I passed through the woods, as quickly as I could as the soles of my feet were burning a bit and I just wanted to finish. A walk across a huge meadow field brought me to Bradgate Park, and I followed the tarmac path running through the Park to Newtown Linford. This is a drag at the best of times, and the rain decided to really go for it (where is this Indian summer we were promised!?!) My mate rang, and it was quite good to be able to chat as I was walking, but by the time I got back to the car I was soaked as I decided I couldn't be bothered to put waterproofs on!
My lovely mum had saved me a Sunday dinner, which was very very welcome... my legs were aching a bit, but not too bad, I'm just a little stiff. The soles of my feet are a little sore still and I have a blister, but all in all, I'm in pretty good shape. The walk took me 11 1/2 hours, which is quite slow, but I wasn't rushing, I just wanted to do the distance with a decent pack weight, and it's all time on the feet.
At least the rain won't be a problem in the desert!!
Labels: challenge, Challenge walks, Charnwood Marathon, Charnwood Round
Saturday, September 01, 2007
The Charnwood Round
This is an 'anytime' challenge walk I picked up a leaflet for some years ago. It is based around the Charnwood area near me, the 'beauty spots' of Bradgate Park and Beacon Hill. It does have capacity to shorten the route, but the full 'challenge' route is 33 miles, a nice distance to move up to from 26 miles, so I am considering doing this tomorrow.
Basically a lot of the route is the route used for the Charnwood Marathon, but in reverse.
I'll take my pack and make it fairly heavy, which shouldn't be difficult as I will need to carry my own water. The LDWA walks give you the luxury of regular check points/ drink stations!
Had a session at the gym Thursday and had another kind of session last night- the bar, boogie and lager type! Ah well, I don't do that too often and I'm sure dancing is good exercise!!
Walked down to Syston via Queniborough today, approx 4 miles, as a gentle wind down for tomorrow's planned trek!
Meeting some mates tonight, too, for a meal at the Harvester, good job I'm doing all this exercise!
Basically a lot of the route is the route used for the Charnwood Marathon, but in reverse.
I'll take my pack and make it fairly heavy, which shouldn't be difficult as I will need to carry my own water. The LDWA walks give you the luxury of regular check points/ drink stations!
Had a session at the gym Thursday and had another kind of session last night- the bar, boogie and lager type! Ah well, I don't do that too often and I'm sure dancing is good exercise!!
Walked down to Syston via Queniborough today, approx 4 miles, as a gentle wind down for tomorrow's planned trek!
Meeting some mates tonight, too, for a meal at the Harvester, good job I'm doing all this exercise!
Labels: Charnwood Marathon, Charnwood Round, gym
