Thursday, July 31, 2008
The Ridgeway Revisited
I had a lovely walk last Saturday... Carol, who posts on the MdS Forum and is a fellow 2009 MdS entrant, suggested a walk along the Ridgeway as it's pretty much midway for both of us, so we arranged to meet at the car park where the B4494 out of Wantage meets the Ridgeway. I remembered this being a particularly attractive part of the trail, and we decided to walk out and back again, covering 35 miles as preparation for the Kent 50.
It was a gorgeously hot, sunny day- around 24 degrees- ideal training conditions! As we weren't taking part in an organised event, we needed to carry our own water as, apart from a couple of water taps along this part of the Ridgeway, there's not much else. This meant that my pack was considerably heavier than during the Ridgeway 40, probably around 5 kg.
Typical Ridgeway Scenery Near The Start Of The Walk
I made pretty good time, and met Carol as arranged. It was really good to meet a fellow MdS 'nutter' and we were able to chat all day about everything MdS related!
I wore the Cobber I picked up in Blacks for £3.99- basically it's like a long, narrow scarf filled with crystals, and when soaked in cold water, they swell up until it becomes sausage shaped. It is then tied around the neck, and is supposed to keep cool... I must admit, it worked pretty well, especially when rotated every so often to find a cool spot.
We set off at a good walking pace, and stopped for a breather and a drink on Whitehorse Hill, site of the famous Uffington White Horse. There were quite a few gliders here, and on the way back we saw quite a few paragliders.
View Of The Ridgeway From Whitehorse Hill
Then it was pretty much straight on, past various ancient landmarks such as long barrows and hill forts, to Fox Hill and the road past the Shepherd's Rest pub.
View From The Ridgeway Near The Pub 
Near Liddington Castle Hill Fort 
Approaching Waylands Smithy
It was a gorgeously hot, sunny day- around 24 degrees- ideal training conditions! As we weren't taking part in an organised event, we needed to carry our own water as, apart from a couple of water taps along this part of the Ridgeway, there's not much else. This meant that my pack was considerably heavier than during the Ridgeway 40, probably around 5 kg.
Typical Ridgeway Scenery Near The Start Of The WalkI made pretty good time, and met Carol as arranged. It was really good to meet a fellow MdS 'nutter' and we were able to chat all day about everything MdS related!
I wore the Cobber I picked up in Blacks for £3.99- basically it's like a long, narrow scarf filled with crystals, and when soaked in cold water, they swell up until it becomes sausage shaped. It is then tied around the neck, and is supposed to keep cool... I must admit, it worked pretty well, especially when rotated every so often to find a cool spot.
We set off at a good walking pace, and stopped for a breather and a drink on Whitehorse Hill, site of the famous Uffington White Horse. There were quite a few gliders here, and on the way back we saw quite a few paragliders.
View Of The Ridgeway From Whitehorse HillThen it was pretty much straight on, past various ancient landmarks such as long barrows and hill forts, to Fox Hill and the road past the Shepherd's Rest pub.
View From The Ridgeway Near The PubWe stopped for a cool drink at the pub, and used the facilities- I made the mistake of lookingg in the mirror and realising how stupid I looked sporting my sunglasses, orange baseball cap and Cobber! Carol had some Nuun tablets- one dropped into a bottle of water turns it into an electrolyte drink. She kindly let me try one, I will definately be getting these for the MdS.
After a road walk which crossed over the M4, we climbed back onto the Ridgeway and the spectacular section by Liddington Castle Fort I remembered from the Ridgeway 40.
Near Liddington Castle Hill FortWe stopped for lunch just before the track starts to become badly rutted, and had some lunch, before turning and heading back. It was still very warm and, as usual, I sweated bucket loads all day- maybe this means that my internal cooling systems are in tip top condition!!
Approaching Waylands SmithyJust past Waylands Smithy we passed a group of cyclists looking for Ashbury. I got the map out and pointed them in the right direction- they weren't far off- and had a bit of a chat. They had actually heard of the MdS and were suitably impressed!! Both me and Carol admitted that we don't usually tell folks what we are doing as they expect us to be super athletes and stride off into the distance at a great rate of knotts!!
White Horse Hill 
Strong Evening Light Near The End
White Horse HillWe had a pull back up to White Horse Hill- the only trouble with the Ridgeway being a long, relatively straight route is you can see where you've got to go- as in the above pic!
We had another quick stop on the hill- I hadn't taken any painkillers this time, so my legs were starting to ache a little, although I managed to stay blister free thanks to the multi sports socks I bought in Blacks.
Strong Evening Light Near The EndWe had an uneventful finish apart from me being charged by two black labradors whilst refilling my water bottle (I presume they were owned by somebody out of sight working in the field by the track, as I could hear a disembodied voice yelling ("Come here! Come here! Bloody dogs!!"); my legs were aching by the end but nothing more sinister, and I really enjoyed the day!
Both me, Carol, Rach and Rose, all 2009ers, are undertaking the Kent 50 a week on Sunday- I am really looking forward to this as it will be like a proper weekend away, staying in a Travel Lodge and everything- can't wait!
Friday, July 25, 2008
Ear Update...
I still appear to have very little hearing in my left ear. I had managed to convince myself that I had done some permanent damage, and had lost the hearing for good, so plucked up the courage to see my GP yesterday...
... his verdict, in his own words, is "A bloody great impacted lump of wax which is going nowhere!" He also insisted in taking my blood pressure- god knows why, I'm sure earwax doesn't impact on blood pressure; he didn't divulge what it was, but I heard him say "Perfect!"
So I will need to have it syringed in a fortnight's time, which will be a totally new experience... in the mean time, I need to soften it by shooting olive oil down my ear twice a day- a lot easier said than done and I'm going to have a permanently greasy ear for a fortnight. I will be so glad to get my hearing back, it's quite disorientating not to mention irritating!!
I am doing a long walk along the Ridgeway tomorrow with Carol, who is also doing the MdS next year- we are aiming to do around 30- 35 miles out and back, in preparation for the Kent 50. It's very warm today so hopefully should be nice! Be great to meet Carol too.
... his verdict, in his own words, is "A bloody great impacted lump of wax which is going nowhere!" He also insisted in taking my blood pressure- god knows why, I'm sure earwax doesn't impact on blood pressure; he didn't divulge what it was, but I heard him say "Perfect!"
So I will need to have it syringed in a fortnight's time, which will be a totally new experience... in the mean time, I need to soften it by shooting olive oil down my ear twice a day- a lot easier said than done and I'm going to have a permanently greasy ear for a fortnight. I will be so glad to get my hearing back, it's quite disorientating not to mention irritating!!
I am doing a long walk along the Ridgeway tomorrow with Carol, who is also doing the MdS next year- we are aiming to do around 30- 35 miles out and back, in preparation for the Kent 50. It's very warm today so hopefully should be nice! Be great to meet Carol too.
Thursday, July 24, 2008
Spain- Day 7 (& 8)
Day 7
After the long walk yesterday, I thought an easier day might be in order, and decided to spend the time with the family...
Dad suggested an outing to a small island not far from the coast of Alicante- Tabarca. It can only be reached by boat (being an island and all!) so we set of for Santa Pola, a beach a short distance from Alicante.
We parked up and walked past the beach, which appears to be a lot quieter than La Mata. We reached the quay and boarded one of the ferries which leave every hour. It was pretty full, but me and Chloe stood outside, at the front, watching Tabarca get bigger and bigger and riding the waves. When we had nearly reached the island, a hatch inside the boat was opened up to allow people to descend to underwater viewing windows. Bread is then thrown out and loads of flat, silvery striped fish appear in a mad feeding frenzy. I have a video of this (complete with Spanish kids in the background), it has once again gone to the bottom of the page...
Tabarca Quay
Tabarca is a tiny island, with a small quay, beach with rows of sunbeds for hire, a tiny village with one main street, a few shops selling tourist tat, and a few cafes; the bottom part of the island ends in flat rocks where people had spread out towels to catch the sun, and the top part contains cliffs, a curious squat tower, ruined house and lighthouse.
Village 'Square'
We walked up the 'main street', and around the rocky headland, before rounding the coastline back to the beach. It was really hot, I could feel the sun burning my feet where the sandals left them bare; I applied suncream but the damage had already been done and I now have lovely red squares on the tops of both feet!
We had spanish omelette and chips, and then headed to the north part of Tabarca. There is a small shrine set into the rocks of the cliffs, which me and Dad scrambled down to.
Lighthouse From The Ruined House
That's all there was to Tabarca, but some folks go there for a holiday- god knows what they find to do for a few days, apart from sun bathing and the odd scuba diving! We had a little wait for the ferry back to Santa Pola, but managed to get an upstairs seat with a welcome breeze.
Coming In To Santa Pola
After the long walk yesterday, I thought an easier day might be in order, and decided to spend the time with the family...
Dad suggested an outing to a small island not far from the coast of Alicante- Tabarca. It can only be reached by boat (being an island and all!) so we set of for Santa Pola, a beach a short distance from Alicante.
We parked up and walked past the beach, which appears to be a lot quieter than La Mata. We reached the quay and boarded one of the ferries which leave every hour. It was pretty full, but me and Chloe stood outside, at the front, watching Tabarca get bigger and bigger and riding the waves. When we had nearly reached the island, a hatch inside the boat was opened up to allow people to descend to underwater viewing windows. Bread is then thrown out and loads of flat, silvery striped fish appear in a mad feeding frenzy. I have a video of this (complete with Spanish kids in the background), it has once again gone to the bottom of the page...
Tabarca QuayTabarca is a tiny island, with a small quay, beach with rows of sunbeds for hire, a tiny village with one main street, a few shops selling tourist tat, and a few cafes; the bottom part of the island ends in flat rocks where people had spread out towels to catch the sun, and the top part contains cliffs, a curious squat tower, ruined house and lighthouse.
Village 'Square'We walked up the 'main street', and around the rocky headland, before rounding the coastline back to the beach. It was really hot, I could feel the sun burning my feet where the sandals left them bare; I applied suncream but the damage had already been done and I now have lovely red squares on the tops of both feet!
We had spanish omelette and chips, and then headed to the north part of Tabarca. There is a small shrine set into the rocks of the cliffs, which me and Dad scrambled down to.
Lighthouse From The Ruined HouseThat's all there was to Tabarca, but some folks go there for a holiday- god knows what they find to do for a few days, apart from sun bathing and the odd scuba diving! We had a little wait for the ferry back to Santa Pola, but managed to get an upstairs seat with a welcome breeze.
Coming In To Santa PolaWe walked back along the beach to the car, letting the sea wash over our feet. The sand was red hot- talk about walking like a cat on a hot tin roof! I guess the Saharan sands would be even hotter! Doing the MdS barefoot may not be an option...
On the way home, Dad pulled into a layby by the pink tinged salt lakes, and we saw whole flocks of flamingos dipping their heads into the water. We must have actually walked a fair old way throughout the day, and felt fully justified in attacking the Chinese restaurant again that night!
Day 8
Departure day- and goodbyes. Not a lot to say really apart from the fact that after getting up at 2:45am Spanigh time I was well knackered! I did take this sunrise shot out of the plane window though...
Sunrise Over Spain
Sunrise Over SpainLabels: Santa Pola, Spain, Tabarca
Spain- Day 6
Day 6
We started the day by souvenir hunting in downtown Catral in one of the little 'Todo' shops (Todo means 'all', and these shops really do sell everything). We met Suki near the school and he followed us around the town and into every shop we went in!
Downtown Catral
In the afternoon, I strapped on the rucksack, added June's two 1 kilo weights for good measure, and set off for a walk. I took the back road out of Catral, which twisted and turned its way towards the back streets of the next town, Dolores.
Cactus
It was hot- around 35 degrees today, but I decided to walk rather than run, and although I tried to keep a good pace, I wasn't sweating too badly. Well, not quite as much as I was when I ran.
Arriving In Dolores 
Casica
We started the day by souvenir hunting in downtown Catral in one of the little 'Todo' shops (Todo means 'all', and these shops really do sell everything). We met Suki near the school and he followed us around the town and into every shop we went in!
Downtown CatralIn the afternoon, I strapped on the rucksack, added June's two 1 kilo weights for good measure, and set off for a walk. I took the back road out of Catral, which twisted and turned its way towards the back streets of the next town, Dolores.
CactusIt was hot- around 35 degrees today, but I decided to walk rather than run, and although I tried to keep a good pace, I wasn't sweating too badly. Well, not quite as much as I was when I ran.
Arriving In DoloresThere was supposed to be a shop in Dolores selling the toe socks, but could I find it!! After a lot of to-ing and fro-ing I gave up, and walked along the road towards Almoradi until I ran out of pavement. I decided not to continue as the road was really busy and I am not ready to shuffle off this mortal coil just yet. Instead I headed back to the main square in Dolores (which apparently means 'pain' in Spanish!?!) for a drink and a loo stop. I had had concerns about my ability to ask for a.) the loo and b.) a diet coke, but when I finally chose a bar and plucked up the courage to go in, the barmaid turned out to be as British as I am!
I took my drink outside, and when I got up to go, two Spanish blokes at the next table started talking to me. Of course, I couldn't understand what they said, so grinned at them, pointed at my rucksack and mimed running. We had a good laugh even though we couldn't actually understand each other!
I headed back to Catral on a cycle path next to the road, walked around the town, and out to Casica again for a bit of extra mileage.
CasicaIt was cloudier now, but very humid. I was out for around 3 1/4 hours, and probably covered around 8- 9 miles without any problems, with a pack weighing around 3.5kg. I was testing tutti fruttis today and they passed with flying colours!
Spain- Days 4 & 5
Day 4
Saturday was quite a lazy day- we hit the shops!! Did do quite a lot of walking around the large shopping centre in Torrevieja, and I did buy a Cookies 'n' Cream Powerbar from a sports shop to try, so that's ok then!
Oh yes, and I had an absolutely gorgeous white hot chocolate drink- it was just like drinking melted chocolate!
I did give a nod towards the training though, as I set off for a 1 1/2 hour run in the afternoon. I ran down the back roads around Catral, past tumbledown houses and more compounds with large, angry dogs. It was still hot, and I still sweated loads but made sure I kept drinking. I had forgotten to take a cap but managed to pick up a baseball cap on the first day for 2 euros- shame it is a nice lurid orange colour.
Day 5
Dad drove us through San Isidro and up into the Crevillente mountains. I kept hoping my ears might pop, but sadly they didn't... we stopped at a view point to take some pictures;
The Crevillente Mountains
The mountains are a kind of beige colour, dotted with small scrubby bushes, and look very crumbly- as though you might set off an avalanche of stones with every step. But people do walk in them apparently, and I would love to do so one day. They always look so inviting from Catral.
We drove right over the mountains on a switchback road- Dad said that a lorry driver lost it on a bend a short while ago, but was just able to get out and clear before the truck crashed through the road barrier and down the ravine which was amazingly lucky.
After lunch, we drove out to a reservoir, nestling in the foothills. It was quite a large stretch of water, and an amazing turquoise colour totally unlike the reservoirs we have here in the UK.
Reservoir
Afterwards, we went to a castle for a drink... sadly it wasn't an ancient 'conquistador' type crumbling castle but a spanking new modern one, being constructed as a conference hall. There were two adult donkeys in an enclosure nearby and two cute baby donkeys- I couldn't resist getting a photo!
Saturday was quite a lazy day- we hit the shops!! Did do quite a lot of walking around the large shopping centre in Torrevieja, and I did buy a Cookies 'n' Cream Powerbar from a sports shop to try, so that's ok then!
Oh yes, and I had an absolutely gorgeous white hot chocolate drink- it was just like drinking melted chocolate!
I did give a nod towards the training though, as I set off for a 1 1/2 hour run in the afternoon. I ran down the back roads around Catral, past tumbledown houses and more compounds with large, angry dogs. It was still hot, and I still sweated loads but made sure I kept drinking. I had forgotten to take a cap but managed to pick up a baseball cap on the first day for 2 euros- shame it is a nice lurid orange colour.
Day 5
Dad drove us through San Isidro and up into the Crevillente mountains. I kept hoping my ears might pop, but sadly they didn't... we stopped at a view point to take some pictures;
The Crevillente MountainsThe mountains are a kind of beige colour, dotted with small scrubby bushes, and look very crumbly- as though you might set off an avalanche of stones with every step. But people do walk in them apparently, and I would love to do so one day. They always look so inviting from Catral.
We drove right over the mountains on a switchback road- Dad said that a lorry driver lost it on a bend a short while ago, but was just able to get out and clear before the truck crashed through the road barrier and down the ravine which was amazingly lucky.
After lunch, we drove out to a reservoir, nestling in the foothills. It was quite a large stretch of water, and an amazing turquoise colour totally unlike the reservoirs we have here in the UK.
Reservoir Afterwards, we went to a castle for a drink... sadly it wasn't an ancient 'conquistador' type crumbling castle but a spanking new modern one, being constructed as a conference hall. There were two adult donkeys in an enclosure nearby and two cute baby donkeys- I couldn't resist getting a photo!
When we got back, I donned the rucksack and headed out for a walk along the roads around Catral for around an hour and a half, getting slightly lost. We went out for dinner in the evening, so I felt entitled to my jam sponge and custard! (Not very Spanish...)
Labels: Catral, Mountains, Spain
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
Spain- Day 3
Day 3
The others decided to take wind breaks etc and stay on the beach for the morning, but that's really not my thing, so I opted out to do a spot of heat training instead... Dad drew me a rough map of a 16k route they cycle and I filled my small rucksack. As I headed out of Catral, I decided it wasn't quite heavy enough, so stopped to add three biggish stones. I guess it must have weighed around 2.5kg.
Heading Out Of Catral
I took the road out of Catral, walking on the left to face oncoming traffic, up to the small hamlet of Casicas; there wasn't much there apart from a few houses with tiled fronts, cacti and assorted dogs. The Spanish natives were sitting relaxing in the shade and I got a few strange looks as I jogged past- only mad dogs and English women...
The Road To Casicas
The others decided to take wind breaks etc and stay on the beach for the morning, but that's really not my thing, so I opted out to do a spot of heat training instead... Dad drew me a rough map of a 16k route they cycle and I filled my small rucksack. As I headed out of Catral, I decided it wasn't quite heavy enough, so stopped to add three biggish stones. I guess it must have weighed around 2.5kg.
Heading Out Of CatralI took the road out of Catral, walking on the left to face oncoming traffic, up to the small hamlet of Casicas; there wasn't much there apart from a few houses with tiled fronts, cacti and assorted dogs. The Spanish natives were sitting relaxing in the shade and I got a few strange looks as I jogged past- only mad dogs and English women...
The Road To CasicasIt was hot- up in the 30's- but I was slightly disappointed to experience a slight breeze which often kept the worst of the heat off; I'd quite like to have experienced the full force of it for a more authentic Saharan experience. I decided to run slowly and cultivate my Sahara Shuffle! Before long I was dripping with sweat, which kept running into my eyes and stinging like b*ggery- maybe I need a sweat band!!
Rustic House
Crevillente Mountains 
San Fellipe Neri Church
Rustic HouseI followed a track running parallel to the motorway before crossing over in on a bridge and following the other side. I ran past a scrapyard (nice!) and along the way passed several compounds with large, angry dogs barking at me, I was so glad they couldn't actually get out... had a few near misses with Spanish HGV drivers too...
I stopped at the outskirts of the village of Realengro to check on the condition of the chocolate I was testing today- peanut M & M's and Freddie Frog Dairy Milk. The M & M's were in excellent shape, and the Freddie Frog had become totally liquid as I guessed it would- the real test would be if it solidified satisfactorily later.
I plugged in my MP3 and carried on down the dusty road, sweating lots, with the view of the mountains below;
Crevillente MountainsAs I came into the small village of San Fillipe Neri, I saw a sign pointing to a track, saying 'Nature Reserve', so thought it may be worth a look see- only trouble was, there were two tracks running parallel, each side of a wide irrigation ditch, and I wasn't sure which track actually led to the Reserve... I decided on the left side track, so followed it some distance, only to see the entrance to the Reserve on the right hand track! There was no way of crossing the ditch, but I thought if I kept going, there may be a bridge or something. There wasn't- just a locked gate barring the track, so I had to retrace my steps and follow the right hand track.
There was a visitor's centre, with a sign outside promising toilets and drinks. I pushed the door open and walked in... it was empty, except for a few displays in Spanish about plants and birds, and my footsteps echoed as I stomped around looking for a loo. A lady emerged and asked me something in Spanish, and as the word for toilet had escaped me, I said, hopefully, "Toilette?" She answered in English that there were toilets outside, and I decided to ask whether there was the possibility of purchasing a cold beverage. All that came out was "Agua?"
She replied that there were no drinks available to the public yet, but added "I have some water I can give you" and fetched me a plastic beaker full of ice cold water from a water cooler. As I gratefully sipped, she fetched me a leaflet about the reserve (in English!) God knows what she thought of this mad English woman carrying a rucksack and dripping all over the floor! After I visited the loos I walked around the reserve on a trail constructed from less than stable board walks.
Suitably refreshed and educated, I retraced my steps and jogged through the village, past the church;
San Fellipe Neri ChurchThe water in my drinking bottles had become very hot by now, and rather unpalatable, but I figured it was good practice for drinking in the desert! The SIS Isotonic drink was still ok, but quite sweet so I may try diluting it more in future.
When I reached Catral I walked round the village back to Dad's. Although it had been really hot, and I'd sweated loads, I had been out for around 3 1/2 hours, covered around 12 miles and didn't feel too bad at all, which is encouraging!
I went in the pool afterwards and swam quite a few lengths- unfortunately I haven't been able to hear properly out of my left ear since!! And the Freddie Frog never did solidify effectively- it just crumbled to bits and tasted funny, so- peanut M & M's- yes, Freddie Frog Dairy Milk- no.
Viva L'Espana- Days 1 & 2
I'm back from Sunny Spain!! Slightly burnt and deaf in one ear, but home...
Day 1
I took my step brother's eldest daughter, Chloe, with me for her first visit; we had a fairly early start- getting up at 4:45am to get the taxi to the airport, but luckily everything went smoothly. It was Chloe's first flight so I very generously let her have the window seat.
I was expecting to land amidst gorgeous blue skies and searing sun, so it was a bit of a shock to come down into black clouds and driving rain! Dad and my stepmum June were waiting, so we dodged the rain (which was mercifully warm) and drove home through a thunder storm. Not the most promising of starts to the warm weather training!!
We looked round a shopping centre Wednesday afternoon, very strenuous! We stocked up on supplies too... I don't know why, but I love looking around foreign supermarkets... especially the foreign chocolate and sweets aisles... call me sad...
It had stopped raining by the evening and was quite muggy, so we sat outside with mugs of milky hot chocolate. We were treated to a terrific electrical storm- me and Dad watched it from the roof terrace (yes- they have a roof terrace!) and I took a (rather boring) video... for some reason it has gone to the bottom of the entry if you really must see it.
Day 2
We went to the beach at La Mata in Torrevieja Thursday morning... I had entertained thoughts of running along it but soon changed my mind as it was absolutely thronged with people of all shapes, sizes and nationalities. So I had to be content with walking along the shoreline, letting the sea wash gently over our feet. We did walk quite a way though, and it's surprising how hot the sand was- I suspect that the sands of the Sahara would be even hotter so doing the MdS barefoot is probably a no no. After a drink, we walked back along the boardwalk, although we were walking quite slowly we must have covered some distance.
Sea At La Mata
Later on, we wandered around the town of Catral, where Dad lives, and ended up at his favourite bar/ cafe, in the square with the church as a backdrop. The bar has a resident dog, Suki, (pronounced Thuki), who is of questionable descent but one of his parents obviously became closely acquainted with a poodle. The bar is Suki's domain, and he will greet regulars and defend it fiercely against other dogs, anything on wheels and, oddly enough, Moroccans. Suki will regularly wander around the town, and can be seen anywhere from the market to wairing for the kids to come out of school- if you ask his owner where he is, he will just shrug and say 'Catral'.
Suki
Later on, I decided to break myself in gently and went for a walk around the town- it was warm, but bearable, and I probably did about 3 miles. Then into the pool for a swim- bit of cross training you know- not bad for the first full day!
Day 1
I took my step brother's eldest daughter, Chloe, with me for her first visit; we had a fairly early start- getting up at 4:45am to get the taxi to the airport, but luckily everything went smoothly. It was Chloe's first flight so I very generously let her have the window seat.
I was expecting to land amidst gorgeous blue skies and searing sun, so it was a bit of a shock to come down into black clouds and driving rain! Dad and my stepmum June were waiting, so we dodged the rain (which was mercifully warm) and drove home through a thunder storm. Not the most promising of starts to the warm weather training!!
We looked round a shopping centre Wednesday afternoon, very strenuous! We stocked up on supplies too... I don't know why, but I love looking around foreign supermarkets... especially the foreign chocolate and sweets aisles... call me sad...
It had stopped raining by the evening and was quite muggy, so we sat outside with mugs of milky hot chocolate. We were treated to a terrific electrical storm- me and Dad watched it from the roof terrace (yes- they have a roof terrace!) and I took a (rather boring) video... for some reason it has gone to the bottom of the entry if you really must see it.
Day 2
We went to the beach at La Mata in Torrevieja Thursday morning... I had entertained thoughts of running along it but soon changed my mind as it was absolutely thronged with people of all shapes, sizes and nationalities. So I had to be content with walking along the shoreline, letting the sea wash gently over our feet. We did walk quite a way though, and it's surprising how hot the sand was- I suspect that the sands of the Sahara would be even hotter so doing the MdS barefoot is probably a no no. After a drink, we walked back along the boardwalk, although we were walking quite slowly we must have covered some distance.
Sea At La MataLater on, we wandered around the town of Catral, where Dad lives, and ended up at his favourite bar/ cafe, in the square with the church as a backdrop. The bar has a resident dog, Suki, (pronounced Thuki), who is of questionable descent but one of his parents obviously became closely acquainted with a poodle. The bar is Suki's domain, and he will greet regulars and defend it fiercely against other dogs, anything on wheels and, oddly enough, Moroccans. Suki will regularly wander around the town, and can be seen anywhere from the market to wairing for the kids to come out of school- if you ask his owner where he is, he will just shrug and say 'Catral'.
SukiLater on, I decided to break myself in gently and went for a walk around the town- it was warm, but bearable, and I probably did about 3 miles. Then into the pool for a swim- bit of cross training you know- not bad for the first full day!
Labels: Spain
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Phew! Off To Spain Tomorrow!!
Just don't know where this week's gone!! I am flying out to Alicante tomorrow to stay with my Dad for a wek, in the small town of Catral, so won't be able to update here until I get back.
I aim to get some running/ walking done in the heat- he said it is around 37 degrees there at the moment, which is just ideal!!
I am also going to test various chocolate bars and sweets for meltability and staying power in the heat... and an isotonic drink for pukability factor when drank in the heat... so watch this space!!
I aim to get some running/ walking done in the heat- he said it is around 37 degrees there at the moment, which is just ideal!!
I am also going to test various chocolate bars and sweets for meltability and staying power in the heat... and an isotonic drink for pukability factor when drank in the heat... so watch this space!!
Labels: Spain
Sunday, July 13, 2008
John Merrill Walks
As I hadn't done any longer walks for quite a while, I dug out my walking books and noticed that in the 'Short Circular Walks in Charnwood Forest' by John Merrill were two walks that were quite close together- one 5 1/2 miles and one 5 miles. I thought it would be interesting to link them both together, so set of with a not too heavy rucksack- probably around 2.5 kg- and headed for Copt Oak. There's a handy lay by for parking at the start of the first walk, at Warren Hills, and I optimistically set off at a jog down the (busy!) road, past the Bull's Head Inn, the highest in Leicestershire (though that's not saying much!) at 787 feet, towards the first footpath.
The Bull's Head Inn
Things fell apart amazingly quickly. I found the farm the guide book told me to pass to get to the footpath, and carried blithely along the road, expecting to see the footpath sign on my right. It wasn't there. So I got out the map, and realised it was literally just past the farm, and I had gone too far. So back I went, to the farm, where there was a footpath sign... going the wrong way! It should go straight ahead, along a track, but this one veered to the left, parallel to the road.
I thought maybe I should retrace my steps a little, so jogged back up the road- nothing. I got the map out- again- and realised that there was only one footpath along the entire road- so the one veering to the left must be the right one. I walked back towards it, and crossed the road to check that there was a bridleway opposite, as there should be according to the map. There was- so it was obviously the right path but I was feeling pretty p*ssed off by now as I had wasted around half an hour with aimless to-ing and fro-ing, not to mention setting a new personal best by getting lost within the first half mile.
The path was pretty enough, but had me concerned as it was going the total opposite way of where I wanted to go, which was up Bardon Hill. I was hoping it had been rerouted, and would veer round to the right and then join up with the path I needed. I passed a few cows- behind a wire fence, yay- and passed this small pretty pool, jogging where I could without the risk of a broken ankle.
Pool Near Footpath
To my releif, the path was well signed and did join the proper track I needed, turning right and ascending to Beacon Hill- I made myself run uphill before joining a really steep slippery track. I had a nice suprise here though- I suddenly came across several raspberry bushes with loads of plump, ripe fruit, so stopped for elevenses!
There's only really one way to the summit of Bardon Hill, Leicestershire's highest point at a lofty 278 feet (again, not saying much! It hardly matches up to the Alps!!) I have probably mentioned this before, but the hill been totally ruined- just past the trig point the earth just drops away and the whole site is one huge quarry.
View Over The Quarry
Apparently there used to be the rest of the hill here, complete with paths and tracks; it's now a huge blank space on the map!
The Trig Point And Summit Of Bardon Hill 
Looking Towards Mount St Bernards Abbey
The Bull's Head InnThings fell apart amazingly quickly. I found the farm the guide book told me to pass to get to the footpath, and carried blithely along the road, expecting to see the footpath sign on my right. It wasn't there. So I got out the map, and realised it was literally just past the farm, and I had gone too far. So back I went, to the farm, where there was a footpath sign... going the wrong way! It should go straight ahead, along a track, but this one veered to the left, parallel to the road.
I thought maybe I should retrace my steps a little, so jogged back up the road- nothing. I got the map out- again- and realised that there was only one footpath along the entire road- so the one veering to the left must be the right one. I walked back towards it, and crossed the road to check that there was a bridleway opposite, as there should be according to the map. There was- so it was obviously the right path but I was feeling pretty p*ssed off by now as I had wasted around half an hour with aimless to-ing and fro-ing, not to mention setting a new personal best by getting lost within the first half mile.
The path was pretty enough, but had me concerned as it was going the total opposite way of where I wanted to go, which was up Bardon Hill. I was hoping it had been rerouted, and would veer round to the right and then join up with the path I needed. I passed a few cows- behind a wire fence, yay- and passed this small pretty pool, jogging where I could without the risk of a broken ankle.
Pool Near FootpathTo my releif, the path was well signed and did join the proper track I needed, turning right and ascending to Beacon Hill- I made myself run uphill before joining a really steep slippery track. I had a nice suprise here though- I suddenly came across several raspberry bushes with loads of plump, ripe fruit, so stopped for elevenses!
There's only really one way to the summit of Bardon Hill, Leicestershire's highest point at a lofty 278 feet (again, not saying much! It hardly matches up to the Alps!!) I have probably mentioned this before, but the hill been totally ruined- just past the trig point the earth just drops away and the whole site is one huge quarry.
View Over The QuarryApparently there used to be the rest of the hill here, complete with paths and tracks; it's now a huge blank space on the map!
The Trig Point And Summit Of Bardon HillAfter a quick drink, I had to descend by the same track (passing the raspberry bushes again!) and followed a gentle track round the side of the hill through the woods before descending to Greenhill (part of Whitwick). This was near to the end of walk one, and I picked up walk two by jogging along a track connecting Greenhill with Whitwick proper and finding the footpath round another quarry and through fields to Mount St Bernard Abbey. I had walked this bit on the Charnwood Round last September and was mightily relieved to see crops in the fields, not cows! I was expecting it to rain, but apart from a couple of drops, it stayed dry and sunny!
There are a lot of quarries round here, mining granite from the extinct volcanoes- funny to think that Bardon Hill used to be one of a chain of volcanoes rising out of an ancient sea! (I only know that cos I passed an information board at Warren Hills near the end...)
Looking Towards Mount St Bernards AbbeyThe route dropped down through fields and woodland to cross the southern tip of Blackbrook Reservoir; I was feeling the heat now but had a slow run when I could, and when the terrain allowed.
Blackbrook Reservoir
Blackbrook ReservoirThere was a bit of road walking afterwards, past Fenney Windmill, to a busy cross roads, which luckily I didn't have to cross. The sun had really come out in force by this time and it was gorgeous!
Fenny Windmill
Fenny WindmillI turned off onto a track, which led through a huge field of wheat (I think!) to Swannymote Road. There was a large wood on the right, and the guide book suggested going through it to pass the base of a huge rocky outcrop (High Cademan) before turning left and dropping down into Whitwick. I was in two minds, as I was practically bound to miss the left turning and end up wandering aimlessly through the woods for ever, but then thought I ought to have a sense of adventure and decided to go for it! I found the huge rocks making up High Cademan, and took what looked to be the right path. It wasn't- I ended up going through the woods for ages, coming out much higher up than I should have done, and had quite a long road walk back to the route! Should have known...
It was straightforward after that though- back to Whitwick, back along the track to Greenhills, and then over the Warren Hills back to the car. After all the to-ing and fro-ing, aimless wandering and unplanned detours, I reckon I must have done around 14- 15 miles, so not bad! Quite a lot of that was running, too- my left calf feels slightly sore but apart from that, all's ok.
I did the usual gym work out Thursday, and have been walking most evenings, so this week's total is 27 miles so far, but I may walk again tonight. Getting back up there!!
I am flying to Spain on Wednesday, Dad informs me that it was 37 degrees yesterday and they had to sit in the pool to cool off, so should get some idea of how my body copes (or doesn't!) with running/ walking in the heat!
Labels: Bardon Hill, John Merrill, Spain, Whitwick
Sunday, July 06, 2008
Grand Prix Race 4; Colwick Country Park & Results
This was the last of the Grand Prix races- a 5 miler around Colwick Park. Last year it absolutely tipped it down, and there were huge puddles everywhere, but this year was luckily a lot drier! The start had been moved, and was quite a way away from the loos which was a major concern of mine; it was a nice spot though, near the lake, and I joined Meryl (knew she'd decide to do it!) as we lined up along a track waiting to start. She was determined to get in under 1 hour, I was hoping to PB but couldn't remember last year's time.
After what seemed an age we were off, to the funniest sounding hooter I ever heard- it sounded like an emergency siren and me and Meryl hoped it wasn't an omen!
The course had been changed slightly, we ran along tracks round the lake to a tarmac path past the car parks. I managed to overtake a few folks and spotted some familiar backs and hair dos. This race felt much easier than Tuesday's despite being a mile longer; after traversing the car park we were again on tracks through the park, which wound through wooded areas interspersed by yellow arrows indicating the route.
We turned a sharp right, and headed across an open area where folks had gathered to cheer us on! Then it was back round for the second loop. For about half a mile there was a chap who would run just behind me, making the most disturbing heavy breathing and 'h-h-r-a-k-k' type noises, then power past me before practically stopping dead. He did this quite a few times and I was sorely tempted to trip him up.
The hardest miles were miles 3 - 4; I was suffering a bit, I think I may have gone out slightly too fast. I was so pleased to see the 4 mile mark, and with half a mile to go I managed to pick up the pace slightly and pass a club runner. The finish was 200 yards slightly downhill on grass, and as I tried to put up a show of a sprint finish, folks were shouting "Well done!" which was slightly disconcerting as I hadn't actually finished yet...
I did manage to PB; my time was 44 minutes 18 seconds! I got a juice and clapped people over the finish line as I waited for Meryl. The clock was ticking away and I really hoped she'd achieve her goal of subbing an hour; finally she came into sight and put in a really impressive sprint finish to come in at 59 minutes 45 seconds!
We went to watch the prize winning ceremony but failed to win a spot prize this year. The t-shirts were very smart though...
First, here's last year's results;
Race 1, 10k; 59 mins 24 secs
Race 2, 5K; 28 mins 09 secs
Race 3, 4 miles; 36 mins and 52 secs
Race 4, 5 miles; 46 mins and 21 secs
Overall; 2 hours 50 mins and 46 secs.
And this year's;
Race 1, 10k; 55 mins 25 secs
Race 2, 5K; 27 mins 42 secs
Race 3, 4 miles; 35 mins and 05 secs
Race 4, 5 miles; 44 mins and 18 secs
Overall; 2 hours 42 mins and 30 secs.
That's an overall improvement of 8 minutes and 16 seconds, so not bad!!
My long runs/ walks have been suffering over the last couple of weeks though as a result, so will have to phase those back in... not too long before I go to Spain though!
I had a good session at the gym this morning, with 20 minutes on 'Brian' the summit trainer... apparently the most difficult position is to lean forward so you get the full range of leg movement. It is hard and I was knackered after 20 minutes! A good, productive kind of knackered though... then I had the added stress of venturing into Asda on a Sunday along with everybody else in Leicestershire obviously.
When I got home I was surprised to see that a bar of Asda Smart Price chocolate had apparently jumped into my basket, so am now feeling ever so slightly sick!
After what seemed an age we were off, to the funniest sounding hooter I ever heard- it sounded like an emergency siren and me and Meryl hoped it wasn't an omen!
The course had been changed slightly, we ran along tracks round the lake to a tarmac path past the car parks. I managed to overtake a few folks and spotted some familiar backs and hair dos. This race felt much easier than Tuesday's despite being a mile longer; after traversing the car park we were again on tracks through the park, which wound through wooded areas interspersed by yellow arrows indicating the route.
We turned a sharp right, and headed across an open area where folks had gathered to cheer us on! Then it was back round for the second loop. For about half a mile there was a chap who would run just behind me, making the most disturbing heavy breathing and 'h-h-r-a-k-k' type noises, then power past me before practically stopping dead. He did this quite a few times and I was sorely tempted to trip him up.
The hardest miles were miles 3 - 4; I was suffering a bit, I think I may have gone out slightly too fast. I was so pleased to see the 4 mile mark, and with half a mile to go I managed to pick up the pace slightly and pass a club runner. The finish was 200 yards slightly downhill on grass, and as I tried to put up a show of a sprint finish, folks were shouting "Well done!" which was slightly disconcerting as I hadn't actually finished yet...
I did manage to PB; my time was 44 minutes 18 seconds! I got a juice and clapped people over the finish line as I waited for Meryl. The clock was ticking away and I really hoped she'd achieve her goal of subbing an hour; finally she came into sight and put in a really impressive sprint finish to come in at 59 minutes 45 seconds!
We went to watch the prize winning ceremony but failed to win a spot prize this year. The t-shirts were very smart though...
First, here's last year's results;
Race 1, 10k; 59 mins 24 secs
Race 2, 5K; 28 mins 09 secs
Race 3, 4 miles; 36 mins and 52 secs
Race 4, 5 miles; 46 mins and 21 secs
Overall; 2 hours 50 mins and 46 secs.
And this year's;
Race 1, 10k; 55 mins 25 secs
Race 2, 5K; 27 mins 42 secs
Race 3, 4 miles; 35 mins and 05 secs
Race 4, 5 miles; 44 mins and 18 secs
Overall; 2 hours 42 mins and 30 secs.
That's an overall improvement of 8 minutes and 16 seconds, so not bad!!
My long runs/ walks have been suffering over the last couple of weeks though as a result, so will have to phase those back in... not too long before I go to Spain though!
I had a good session at the gym this morning, with 20 minutes on 'Brian' the summit trainer... apparently the most difficult position is to lean forward so you get the full range of leg movement. It is hard and I was knackered after 20 minutes! A good, productive kind of knackered though... then I had the added stress of venturing into Asda on a Sunday along with everybody else in Leicestershire obviously.
When I got home I was surprised to see that a bar of Asda Smart Price chocolate had apparently jumped into my basket, so am now feeling ever so slightly sick!
Labels: Grand Prix, gym
Wednesday, July 02, 2008
Grand Prix Race 3; Ruddington Country Park
Now last year I found this one the toughest race for some reason, even though it's only four miles... and lo and behold, this year I still found it the toughest one! Ruddington Country Park is fairly near where I work; a nice area with paths, play areas and a lake. I quite often walk round here before going to my friend at Loughborough as I finish work earlier.
There seemed to be a lot more people doing this one; as usual I got there hideously early as it wasn't worth going home. I went to Morrisons and bought some bananas, parked up at the Country Park and munched a banana and cereal bar. It was lovely and peaceful until a family parked up next to me and decided to play a noisy game of rounders with the kids- in the car park! The sound of their ball thudding against the car repeatedly was more than a little distracting...
The organisers had laid on some portaloos, which was a welcome sight as last year the loo queues were horrendous; there are loos in the park- but only one each for ladies and gents! I managed to get changed in the ladies as it wasn't too busy, then killed some time looking for familiar faces; it's surprising how quickly you get to recognise fellow runners, even for visually dyslexic folks like me!!
I always need the loo umpteen times before the start, and as I couldn't see Meryl I decided to walk to the start via the loo. There was still a long queue for all the loos but I remembered that there were more in the visitors centre where they were taking late entries; very few had cottoned onto this so bingo, no queues at all!
I walked to the start which was in the middle of the park, and saw Meryl. We joined the throng, and didn't hear the starting hooter so it was a bit of a surprise when everyone suddenly started running!
The course took two laps around the park, circling the lake. It was really warm, yesterday must have been one of the hottest days of the year! It was fairly flat, with a few undulations which felt surprisingly difficult in the latter stages. I think I possibly set off too fast, as by 1 1/2 miles I was struggling a little. I was convinced they had moved the 2 mile marker, and it was a relief to pass it and realise we were now on the second lap. I kept thinking I was going to have to slow my pace- everything hurt and my breathing was crap, so frustrating! I still managed to overtake a few though, and recognised some familiar faces from the previous races. By a cruel twist, after the 3 mile marker we ran behind the finish line to loop back on ourselves, and it was quite demoralising to see the crowd of runners who had already finished.
My body kept screaming at me to stop, but I willed myself to keep the pace (isn't it funny how once you have overtaken somebody you really don't want them to come past you again!); finally we turned the corner and were faced with a short sloping grassy section to the finish. I tried a sprint finish although had that lovely if-I-push-any-more-I-am-going-to-throw-up feeling; a woman drew level with me and I assumed she'd pass me but I managed to find a little bit extra and finished just in front of her. I was really pleased to see my time; 35 minutes 5 seconds, a PB! Last year's time was 36 minutes 52 seconds. I heard several people saying they found this race the toughest! I got a juice and went back to the finish to cheer Meryl in; there were a few runners behind me waiting for a friend to come in. When some runners appeared in the distance, I heard one say "Is that her?" "Nah" said her companion "Not fat enough!!"
Meryl finished and said that she had also struggled, in fact she said she had spent quite a lot of time telling herself that no way is she running the last race at Colwick Park, but that resolution lasted only until she crossed the line so she will be there!!
One lady, who finished just behind Meryl, had run 5k races in the past and had recently done the Race For Life. She wanted to keep up the running; Meryl had seen her at Wollaton and persuaded her to try Ruddington, so she was really chuffed as it was the longest distance she had ran so a brilliant result!
Just a 5 miler at Colwick park tomorrow and that's it! Gives rain- lovely- but can't possibly be any wetter than last year. Then training resumes as normal next week... I have really neglected the distance stuff as these races are quite intensive, so will need to get back into that next week and up the mileage as the last two weeks totals have been sadly lacking!
There seemed to be a lot more people doing this one; as usual I got there hideously early as it wasn't worth going home. I went to Morrisons and bought some bananas, parked up at the Country Park and munched a banana and cereal bar. It was lovely and peaceful until a family parked up next to me and decided to play a noisy game of rounders with the kids- in the car park! The sound of their ball thudding against the car repeatedly was more than a little distracting...
The organisers had laid on some portaloos, which was a welcome sight as last year the loo queues were horrendous; there are loos in the park- but only one each for ladies and gents! I managed to get changed in the ladies as it wasn't too busy, then killed some time looking for familiar faces; it's surprising how quickly you get to recognise fellow runners, even for visually dyslexic folks like me!!
I always need the loo umpteen times before the start, and as I couldn't see Meryl I decided to walk to the start via the loo. There was still a long queue for all the loos but I remembered that there were more in the visitors centre where they were taking late entries; very few had cottoned onto this so bingo, no queues at all!
I walked to the start which was in the middle of the park, and saw Meryl. We joined the throng, and didn't hear the starting hooter so it was a bit of a surprise when everyone suddenly started running!
The course took two laps around the park, circling the lake. It was really warm, yesterday must have been one of the hottest days of the year! It was fairly flat, with a few undulations which felt surprisingly difficult in the latter stages. I think I possibly set off too fast, as by 1 1/2 miles I was struggling a little. I was convinced they had moved the 2 mile marker, and it was a relief to pass it and realise we were now on the second lap. I kept thinking I was going to have to slow my pace- everything hurt and my breathing was crap, so frustrating! I still managed to overtake a few though, and recognised some familiar faces from the previous races. By a cruel twist, after the 3 mile marker we ran behind the finish line to loop back on ourselves, and it was quite demoralising to see the crowd of runners who had already finished.
My body kept screaming at me to stop, but I willed myself to keep the pace (isn't it funny how once you have overtaken somebody you really don't want them to come past you again!); finally we turned the corner and were faced with a short sloping grassy section to the finish. I tried a sprint finish although had that lovely if-I-push-any-more-I-am-going-to-throw-up feeling; a woman drew level with me and I assumed she'd pass me but I managed to find a little bit extra and finished just in front of her. I was really pleased to see my time; 35 minutes 5 seconds, a PB! Last year's time was 36 minutes 52 seconds. I heard several people saying they found this race the toughest! I got a juice and went back to the finish to cheer Meryl in; there were a few runners behind me waiting for a friend to come in. When some runners appeared in the distance, I heard one say "Is that her?" "Nah" said her companion "Not fat enough!!"
Meryl finished and said that she had also struggled, in fact she said she had spent quite a lot of time telling herself that no way is she running the last race at Colwick Park, but that resolution lasted only until she crossed the line so she will be there!!
One lady, who finished just behind Meryl, had run 5k races in the past and had recently done the Race For Life. She wanted to keep up the running; Meryl had seen her at Wollaton and persuaded her to try Ruddington, so she was really chuffed as it was the longest distance she had ran so a brilliant result!
Just a 5 miler at Colwick park tomorrow and that's it! Gives rain- lovely- but can't possibly be any wetter than last year. Then training resumes as normal next week... I have really neglected the distance stuff as these races are quite intensive, so will need to get back into that next week and up the mileage as the last two weeks totals have been sadly lacking!
Labels: Grand Prix, Ruddington Country Park
