Monday, November 21, 2011
Baby Steps...
I'm gutted to have missed the Brecon Beacons Ultra... again... sounds as though it was a great weekend. Next year... sigh...
My knee is still doing funny things when I kneel, but I haven't really ran on it, just been walking and using the Wii Fit. I intend to build back up slowly and see how it goes.
To cheer myself up I have been thinking of some events for next year. As well as all the 'usual suspects' I would like to knock off some more county marathons, and next year will be the year I complete the Bullock Smithy! The event I didn't complete and which has been hanging over me ever since September 2008!
I am planning on having a fairly cheap year next year travelwise as if I don't save up and swap the car it's likely to fall to bits!!
Ah well- time to inspire myself and go and trawl some events!
My knee is still doing funny things when I kneel, but I haven't really ran on it, just been walking and using the Wii Fit. I intend to build back up slowly and see how it goes.
To cheer myself up I have been thinking of some events for next year. As well as all the 'usual suspects' I would like to knock off some more county marathons, and next year will be the year I complete the Bullock Smithy! The event I didn't complete and which has been hanging over me ever since September 2008!
I am planning on having a fairly cheap year next year travelwise as if I don't save up and swap the car it's likely to fall to bits!!
Ah well- time to inspire myself and go and trawl some events!
Labels: Brecons Ultra, Bullock Smithy Hike
Monday, September 08, 2008
The B*ll*ck Smithy- NOT!
The Bullock Smithy was renamed on the MdS forum, and seems rather more appropriate... especially as I didn't manage to finish. Yes, I am gutted...
We started off ok- I found Hazel Grove, parked up and walked to the start where I met three guys from the MdS forum who are doing the MdS next year too, plus joined Rose, who I met on the Kent 50 and we decided to pool our resources- my navigational skills and Rose's knowledge of run/ walk ratios.
I had been undecided about footwear- the only footwear I had was my running shoes, and I figured it was going to be very wet and boggy underfoot, so after a lot of consideration decided to wear my walking boots and carry my running shoes. I took a load of food and all the essential items listed for the event. I had thought about buying a new head torch, as mine is quite antiquated and I hadn't been able to purchase a new bulb for it, but decided to chance it as I hadn't changed the bulb that long ago- well, that decision was to bite me on the bum later! In all, my pack weighed 6 kg!
I was dreading the kit check before that start as I hadn't got the aforementioned spare bulb plus a couple of the first aid items- but all they told me to do was read through the kit list and sign to say I had everything! Looking at some of the other entrants with their tiny bum bags, there's no way they could have had all the kit items!
We started off well, running and walking, and hit bog quite early on- Rose had been wearing running shoes so changed to her trail shoes. We left Stockport and climbed through Lyme Park, where they filmed Pride and Prejudice (where's Mr Darcy when you need him!?!) Then had a long, gradual ascent to the first check point at Bow Stones.
The Climb To Bow Stones
We had a drink at the checkpoint and I changed out of my long sleeve top as I was sweating. Rose had foldable walking poles, but they kept falling off her front pack, and I think she got a bit fed up with them in the end!!
After the checkpoint was a lovely grassy track with amazing views over the Dark Peak;
Lovely Views
We jogged when we could, ie good tracks and down roads. There was a lot of climbing in the first twenty miles or so though, and at times the route wasn't apparent so I found the map essential. We had another long climb up to the second checkpoint at Chinley Churn, just below the summit edge.
The Posed Photo- taken By Rose!
We started off ok- I found Hazel Grove, parked up and walked to the start where I met three guys from the MdS forum who are doing the MdS next year too, plus joined Rose, who I met on the Kent 50 and we decided to pool our resources- my navigational skills and Rose's knowledge of run/ walk ratios.
I had been undecided about footwear- the only footwear I had was my running shoes, and I figured it was going to be very wet and boggy underfoot, so after a lot of consideration decided to wear my walking boots and carry my running shoes. I took a load of food and all the essential items listed for the event. I had thought about buying a new head torch, as mine is quite antiquated and I hadn't been able to purchase a new bulb for it, but decided to chance it as I hadn't changed the bulb that long ago- well, that decision was to bite me on the bum later! In all, my pack weighed 6 kg!
I was dreading the kit check before that start as I hadn't got the aforementioned spare bulb plus a couple of the first aid items- but all they told me to do was read through the kit list and sign to say I had everything! Looking at some of the other entrants with their tiny bum bags, there's no way they could have had all the kit items!
We started off well, running and walking, and hit bog quite early on- Rose had been wearing running shoes so changed to her trail shoes. We left Stockport and climbed through Lyme Park, where they filmed Pride and Prejudice (where's Mr Darcy when you need him!?!) Then had a long, gradual ascent to the first check point at Bow Stones.
The Climb To Bow StonesWe had a drink at the checkpoint and I changed out of my long sleeve top as I was sweating. Rose had foldable walking poles, but they kept falling off her front pack, and I think she got a bit fed up with them in the end!!
After the checkpoint was a lovely grassy track with amazing views over the Dark Peak;
Lovely ViewsWe jogged when we could, ie good tracks and down roads. There was a lot of climbing in the first twenty miles or so though, and at times the route wasn't apparent so I found the map essential. We had another long climb up to the second checkpoint at Chinley Churn, just below the summit edge.
The Posed Photo- taken By Rose! There was a drinks station on the road, and we had a welcome cup of coffee and a Jaffa Cake bar. Following this was another climb up onto the moors and the third checkpoint at Edale Cross; lovely Moorland scenery, I forgot how lovely this part of the country is;
Climbing to Edale Cross
View From Near Edale Cross
The Descent From Edale Cross
Rose Descending Jacob's Ladder
Mam Tor
Looking Down To Castleton
Climbing to Edale CrossWe overtook quite a few folk on the ascent, and I was pleasantly surprised by the weather- I fully expected to get soaked but it held up all day and was actually quite sunny.
View From Near Edale CrossAfter Edale Cross came the descent into Edale, via Jacob's Ladder.
The Descent From Edale CrossThis is a set of stone steps, reputedly build in the 1700's by a local farmer named Jacob. It was quite slippery- Rose fell and hurt her shoulder.
Rose Descending Jacob's LadderThere was the first 'proper' check point in Edale Village Hall, with that Challenge Walk mainstay, cold rice pudding, and more coffee. I went to the toilet and noticed my urine was quite concentrated (nice!!) so made myself drink two more cups of squash. It was starting to get dusky as we left, and I was keen to make Castleton before dark.
The next part of the route was up and over Hollins Cross, which is in the middle of a popular ridge walk from Mam Tor to Lose Hill. There was a straightforward, if steep, track up to the top, with views over Castleton and back towards Edale.
Mam TorI pointed out the road below Mam Tor, which had to eventually be closed due to the number of rock slides- you can clearly see where the road has been completely swept away in parts.
Looking Down To CastletonThis was the last photo I took, as it was soon too dark to take more. We found a good path down towards Castleton, then this ended in what looked like a stream. We were undecided which way to go, until a group overtook us and informed us that it was, in fact, the path! One of the girls in the group has done the MdS, and we had seen her on the Kent 50. Me and Rose jogged the road into Castleton, and could see the bulk of Peverill Castle looming out of the near darkness.
We reached the Castleton checkpoint just as it got completely dark, and were given jam butties- I needn't have taken so much food with me! As the website had stated that we would be put into groups of at least three for the night stage, we fully expected to be joined up with others, but they seemed happy to let us continue. A girl was at the checkpoint waiting to join a group but said she didn't want to join us as she didn't fancy running! She waited for the group with the MdS girl who we had overtaken on the road.
Me and Rose got out our head torches, I put fresh batteries in mine, and set off- but couldn't find the path we needed, so had to go back to the check point and ask. It was at this point that my head torch packed in!! I couldn't believe it! The next stage was quite tough- climbing out of Cavedale through water dashed rocks in complete and utter darkness. I had to rely on the light from Rose's head torch, which was fine when we could walk side by side, but not so good in single file- she had to keep turning round to light the path for me. Luckily we were overtaken by some blokes, so were able to follow them over Oxlow Rake, and eventually I was able to walk alongside Rose.
We reached the checkpoint at Peak Forest, and left behind another group. The next bit of the route was along the grassy tracks of the Limestone Way, and I had assumed they would be easy walking. Some were- most, however, were just ankle deep, gluttinous, slippery mud, which really slowed us up! I was so grateful for my walking boots, as although they were less flexible than running shoes, I had much better grip, and my feet kept mainly dry. This was so far my lowest point though, but luckily one guy in a group who overtook us took pity on me and lent me his small hand held torch, which was invaluable!
We reached the half way checkpoint near Chelmorton at midnight, and had a very welcome cup of soup and painkillers. I was slightly concerned as I realised it had taken us 12 hours to reach this point, leaving us only 12 hours to complete the hike. I realised then that it was going to be a tall order...
We left shortly behind a large group, and climbed out of the village on a track. We reached a road, and I assumed we needed to turn right, but hadn't gone too far when a voice called out of the darkness "Don't follow us- this isn't your way!" It was eerie as we couldn't see anybody- we called out "Are you sure?" and they replied "Trust us- we are on our way home from the pub- you need to go the other way!"
I got out the map, and discovered that they were right- so we retraced our steps and picked up a footpath, which soon degenerated into the by now familiar gluttinous mud. We caught up with a couple and passed them on the road before the next check point. I was rather demoralised to hear one of the officials announce that they "had the last four" on his mobile. We quickly left, and was able to make good time on roads and tracks to Earl Sterndale, reaching it at 3am. It had rained on and off since darkness fell, and we had a pretty heavy shower. I don't know what was wrong with me though, maybe I was hydrating too well, but I had to keep stopping for a pee all night!!
There were quite a few people at the Earl Sterndale check point, including one lady having an asthma attack, and her husband insisting that she couldn't possibly complete another 21 miles. we had another drink, and left behind a large group. I had heard one of them say that the next section was awful, with a steep, muddy descent, so when I heard somebody else say that they were going to stick to the roads to Brand Top and the next check point, I made the fatal error of deciding to go with them... I assumed that they knew a way, but didn't realise that they were hoping to be able to cut across to Brand Top...
The group split, and me and Rose ended up following three people- the MdS girl, a guy, and the girl who hadn't wanted to join us in Castleton. She appeared to be in charge, and we set off down a track- which soon petered out. She felt that if we crossed a field we could reach the check point, so we set off along a very rock uneven field- this was hell, as the batteries in my borrowed torch had packed in. There was a stream at the bottom we couldn't cross, and other paths we tried petered out. We decided to retreat back to the road - this was really the lowest point for me, I felt so annoyed at myself for following them blindly but at 3am you are just looking for the easy way out. Rose said it was one of the worst experiences of her life so far!
We stuck to the road, and eventually found the check point at Brand Top, but we had lost nearly two hours. The other group decided to retire, but me and Rose elected to carry on. The guy at the check point showed us a road route that would cut out some of the bog on the next stage, which was good as I had changed into my running shoes as my feet were hurting. They were serving hot dogs, but being veggie I just had the bun and tomato sauce! It was light when we left, at 6:30am, and set off back up the road. There was a light drizzle and visibility was down to practically zero. I felt quite low- really tired and my feet were hurting quite badly so I swallowed a couple of pain killers.
After about a mile, the minibus who had picked up the others pulled up along side us. The driver advised us that we would not make the finish by 12pm, I had already suspected this. He said that they couldn't keep the check points open and we would be walking unsupported; well, given that choice and getting into a nice warm minibus, it was no contest really! We settled in and dozed off whilst he picked up more retirees at the next checkpoint- quite a lot of folks retired judging by the results. It was quite touching as we hadn't realised that some of the forum members were following the live results, even losing sleep, and I had some lovely messages from some of them!
Back at the finish, we caught up with two of the forum guys, Ivan and Matt, who had completed it. Another guy, Shiz, had made the sensible decision to retire with an injured knee. I got us a coffee, and the guy driving the minibus came over and apologised for pulling me and Rose out, presenting us with a pair of running socks each! I had a little kip in the car and headed for home.
I am rather gutted not to have completed it, and am thinking of going back next year for another bash, as it's unfinished business for me- I think the lessons to be taken from this are;
- Get as much done in daylight as possible- it would be good to try to get to Peak Forest before dark as Cavedale was horrendous
- Keep pack weight light! Take less stuff
- Take a head torch that bloody works!!!
- Don't trust and blindly follow anybody who says that they are taking a different route without at least checking the map beforehand and understanding exactly where they are proposing to go (although Shiz had said that the suggested route from Earl Sterndale to Brand Top is a devil to navigate in the dark anyway so we may still have become lost)
- Reccying the route between Earl Sterndale and Walker's Barn may be an idea for next year
But- the positives are;
- We covered about 45 miles (Brand Top was 41 miles, but we estimated that we covered around 3/ 4 extra miles getting lost, and had covered another mile before being picked up) in very challenging conditions
- With a pack weighing 6kg
- We have now had the experience of walking through the night- so all in all a good step towards the MdS.
- I am only aching a little and my feet are fine- no injuries- I guess I have to keep in mind that the MdS is the main focus and all that matters- all other events are expendable, and it is better to know when to withdraw and fight another day rather than keep pushing and risk injuries that could push training back for weeks. The Bullock Smithy will be there next year, and it won't matter so much if I injure myself doing it... I will be back...
Labels: Bullock Smithy Hike, Peak District
Friday, September 05, 2008
Thoughts On The Bullock Smithy...
Well, it's the eve of the Bullock Smithy, and I am getting rather nervous about it... it's a 56 mile walk, starting and finishing from Hazel Grove in Stockport (or Bullock Smithy as it used to be known- hence the event name). We are allowed 24 hours to complete it, and the organisers have cunningly made the start 12pm tomorrow, so we need to walk through the night.
So, not only is it the longest distance I have so far done, but my first time of walking all night- I am a walking-through-the-night virgin...
Plus, it is quite a tough route with a lot of climbing and some navigational skills needed... the essential items list includes maps, compass (although I don't really know what to do with it!!) a whistle and something luminous to wear (I have a lovely flourescent yellow tabard which I knew would come in handy some day). We head out through Lyme Park, up to Bow Stones, then onto Chinley Churn before heading toEdale, then to Castleton over Hollins Cross, most of the climbing is, I think, in the first 30 miles.
Plus, of course, I think we are going to get very slightly wet... the weather has been atrocious the past few days, and the forecast is for heavy showers and bright spells... all character building stuff hey!!
** Stop reading if you're squeamish** Plus, my two big toenails have decided to give up the ghost and partially come off- the right one more than the left. The right one lifted right up, but is still securely in the nail bed, and is actually rather sore at the corner- b*gger!! On the advice of a guy on the forum, I have cut it right back to a stub and filed it, and will put tape over it tomorrow.
I have loads of stuff such as snickers bars, peanut m & m's etc- great excuse to eat them! I think there will be food at some check points too, but not sure what. I am only taking one water bottle as drinks shouldn't be a problem.
I am off to mark the route on the map and try to have an early night...
So, not only is it the longest distance I have so far done, but my first time of walking all night- I am a walking-through-the-night virgin...
Plus, it is quite a tough route with a lot of climbing and some navigational skills needed... the essential items list includes maps, compass (although I don't really know what to do with it!!) a whistle and something luminous to wear (I have a lovely flourescent yellow tabard which I knew would come in handy some day). We head out through Lyme Park, up to Bow Stones, then onto Chinley Churn before heading toEdale, then to Castleton over Hollins Cross, most of the climbing is, I think, in the first 30 miles.
Plus, of course, I think we are going to get very slightly wet... the weather has been atrocious the past few days, and the forecast is for heavy showers and bright spells... all character building stuff hey!!
** Stop reading if you're squeamish** Plus, my two big toenails have decided to give up the ghost and partially come off- the right one more than the left. The right one lifted right up, but is still securely in the nail bed, and is actually rather sore at the corner- b*gger!! On the advice of a guy on the forum, I have cut it right back to a stub and filed it, and will put tape over it tomorrow.
I have loads of stuff such as snickers bars, peanut m & m's etc- great excuse to eat them! I think there will be food at some check points too, but not sure what. I am only taking one water bottle as drinks shouldn't be a problem.
I am off to mark the route on the map and try to have an early night...
Labels: Bullock Smithy Hike, toenails
Monday, September 01, 2008
A Busy Weekend!!
Last week was a quite good week, training wise- a 41 mile week!! I got the 10 miler in on Wednesday night- shock, horror, the new Brookes got a little dirty!! I only went quite slowly and had a loo break but was quite pleased with the result!
Thursday was more gym- 30 minutes running on the treadmill, I felt quite tired but pushed through, popping a 5 minute inclination walk in the middle. Then back to 20 minutes on Brian and the elliptical (hmm sounds like a bad pop group...'introducing Brian and The Ellipticals...' Then the usual strength training- but how come whichever weight machine I leave til last suddenly attracts loads of attention just when I am ready to use it...
Friday was rest and pizza day, but had intended a 16 miler Saturday... however it is that time of the month... when all I want to do is slob around and eat chocolate and do the sloth thing, so was completely lacking in motivation. Stricken with guilt over eating so much rubbish, I did strap on a 4 kgish pack and haul myself up to Swithland Woods to walk through them into Bradgate Park (economics- it costs £2.50 to park in Bradgate and £1 to park in the woods!)
It is about 1 1/2 miles through the woods to Bradgate if you don't get lost and end up wandering aimlessly- suffice to say it was about 3 for me!! It was lovely and sunny, and I did a good circuit of the park, finding the steepest climbs I could to try to prepare my legs for next weekend's Bullock Smithy. I didn't take my Garmin as intended to stick to walking but estimate I did 8 to 8 1/2 miles.
Sunday, the weather forecast gave sunny spells with heavy showers moving in towards the evening- perfect conditions for the 16 miler! This was another route in my 'Long Circular Walks in Charnwood Forest' book by John Merrill, and one I had planned to do for a while. The walk starts in the hamlet of Zouch, just outside Loughborough, and I walked through fields to neighbouring Normanton-on-Soar (friendly cows in the field who just ignored me).
The route soon joined the River Soar, marking the boundary between Leicestershire and Nottinghamshire, and, although the day had started misty, the sun was just starting to break through the clouds- I was naively anticipating a scorcher... I ran through the fields when the terrain wasn't too bad, and my pack was around 5 kg.
The River Soar
Shortly after crossing a railway line, the route again followed the river before turning a sharp left up to Stanford-on-Soar. Unfortunately it wasn't well signed, and I turned left too late, so had to scramble over a fence and bank to the road.
Impressive Railway Bridge
The next stage was along the Hoton Hills, a stretch I did on my 'Barrow Bash' in June; a bridleway that traverses a grassy ridge, with sweeping views over Stanford Hall. As I joined the path, I passed a chap walking his two dogs, who told me to keep a look out for the cherry trees at the top. I managed to run (slowly!!) up onto the ridge, and kept an eye out for the cherry trees. I found them and picked small, sweet black cherries and blackberries to snack on.
I ran the rest of the ridge, dropping down into Hoton and then picking up the road to Prestwold. The route followed a path which snaked through woods before doubling back through a field before heading back towards Prestwold Hall. I think the route had changed since John Merrill last walked it, as I got slightly lost for a few minutes!
As I passed the front of Prestwold Hall, it started to rain- the promised showers had arrived about 5 hours early!
Prestwold Hall And Church
I made my way through the woods and along the road to a footpath running through fields to the Cotes Road- the rain had eased off slightly but returned in earnest as soon as I reached the road, I was alternating running and walking. The final stages of the route followed the canal through Loughborough back to Zouch- you can see the rain in the picture below!
Loughborough Canal
Thursday was more gym- 30 minutes running on the treadmill, I felt quite tired but pushed through, popping a 5 minute inclination walk in the middle. Then back to 20 minutes on Brian and the elliptical (hmm sounds like a bad pop group...'introducing Brian and The Ellipticals...' Then the usual strength training- but how come whichever weight machine I leave til last suddenly attracts loads of attention just when I am ready to use it...
Friday was rest and pizza day, but had intended a 16 miler Saturday... however it is that time of the month... when all I want to do is slob around and eat chocolate and do the sloth thing, so was completely lacking in motivation. Stricken with guilt over eating so much rubbish, I did strap on a 4 kgish pack and haul myself up to Swithland Woods to walk through them into Bradgate Park (economics- it costs £2.50 to park in Bradgate and £1 to park in the woods!)
It is about 1 1/2 miles through the woods to Bradgate if you don't get lost and end up wandering aimlessly- suffice to say it was about 3 for me!! It was lovely and sunny, and I did a good circuit of the park, finding the steepest climbs I could to try to prepare my legs for next weekend's Bullock Smithy. I didn't take my Garmin as intended to stick to walking but estimate I did 8 to 8 1/2 miles.
Sunday, the weather forecast gave sunny spells with heavy showers moving in towards the evening- perfect conditions for the 16 miler! This was another route in my 'Long Circular Walks in Charnwood Forest' book by John Merrill, and one I had planned to do for a while. The walk starts in the hamlet of Zouch, just outside Loughborough, and I walked through fields to neighbouring Normanton-on-Soar (friendly cows in the field who just ignored me).
The route soon joined the River Soar, marking the boundary between Leicestershire and Nottinghamshire, and, although the day had started misty, the sun was just starting to break through the clouds- I was naively anticipating a scorcher... I ran through the fields when the terrain wasn't too bad, and my pack was around 5 kg.
The River SoarShortly after crossing a railway line, the route again followed the river before turning a sharp left up to Stanford-on-Soar. Unfortunately it wasn't well signed, and I turned left too late, so had to scramble over a fence and bank to the road.
Impressive Railway BridgeThe next stage was along the Hoton Hills, a stretch I did on my 'Barrow Bash' in June; a bridleway that traverses a grassy ridge, with sweeping views over Stanford Hall. As I joined the path, I passed a chap walking his two dogs, who told me to keep a look out for the cherry trees at the top. I managed to run (slowly!!) up onto the ridge, and kept an eye out for the cherry trees. I found them and picked small, sweet black cherries and blackberries to snack on.
I ran the rest of the ridge, dropping down into Hoton and then picking up the road to Prestwold. The route followed a path which snaked through woods before doubling back through a field before heading back towards Prestwold Hall. I think the route had changed since John Merrill last walked it, as I got slightly lost for a few minutes!
As I passed the front of Prestwold Hall, it started to rain- the promised showers had arrived about 5 hours early!
Prestwold Hall And ChurchI made my way through the woods and along the road to a footpath running through fields to the Cotes Road- the rain had eased off slightly but returned in earnest as soon as I reached the road, I was alternating running and walking. The final stages of the route followed the canal through Loughborough back to Zouch- you can see the rain in the picture below!
Loughborough CanalJust after I passed under the bridge in the picture, two narrowboats came towards me, full of folks who seemed to be dressed up as either pirates or convicts. One boat was moving steadily through the water, but the other one seemed to be weaving from side to side... there was a pirate and convict hanging off the side, whooping. As they passed me, I realised that they were headed towards a large clump of overhanging trees- the two 'hangers on' had to scramble along the sides of the boat and dive into the back before they were swept overboard! They were stuck in the trees for a few minutes before managing to reverse and pull out, hitting the second narrowboat in the process. Looked like fun!!
Loughborough Locks
Loughborough LocksIt was raining heavily now, and I ran along most of the canal. When I reach Normanton-on-Soar I slowed to a walk, as I felt quite tired, and realised I was just about to walk into a field full of cows (luckily they all ignored me too!)
The last stretch seemed endless, and I somehow missed the bridge up to the road at Zouch and came out at the other end of the village. I must say, it was a nice route, and would have been even better had it been sunny! My new shoes were absolutely soaked and appear to have turned a funny shade of yellow, and I have a lovely sore patch on my back where the rucksack rubbed...
I am going to have an easy week this week, and taper for the Bullock Smithy; it is absolutely pouring outside, I am really hoping it clears up before the weekend!!
Labels: Bullock Smithy Hike, John Merrill, Zouch
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Shiney New Shoes!!
I know I'm sad, but I thought I'd take a photo of my shiny new Brooks Addictions... I almost don't want to use them and get 'em all muddy... almost...
I went to the gym Monday as it was Bank Holiday- the gym thoughtfully opens normally on Bank Holidays- it was the first time I'd been back after the Kent 50, so although I did the usual 30 minutes on the treadmill, I didn't go above 6.7 mph. I was aching quite a bit but this was probably due to the fact that I had spent the morning sweeping floors! (Don't ask!!)
I conceded to the aches and pains by only doing 15 minutes on 'Brian' instead of the usual 20, followed by the usual strength training and 20 minutes on the ellipticals. Funnily enough, both Brian and the ellipticals tell me I've done so many miles or kilometres, but I don't include them in my weekly totals...
The new shoes have been well and truly christened now, so I feel a 10 miler coming on right now... last week was about 27 miles, so hoping to do around 35 this week then taper next week ready for the Bullock Smithy... never quite sure I am doing these things right, but we'll see!
I went to the gym Monday as it was Bank Holiday- the gym thoughtfully opens normally on Bank Holidays- it was the first time I'd been back after the Kent 50, so although I did the usual 30 minutes on the treadmill, I didn't go above 6.7 mph. I was aching quite a bit but this was probably due to the fact that I had spent the morning sweeping floors! (Don't ask!!)I conceded to the aches and pains by only doing 15 minutes on 'Brian' instead of the usual 20, followed by the usual strength training and 20 minutes on the ellipticals. Funnily enough, both Brian and the ellipticals tell me I've done so many miles or kilometres, but I don't include them in my weekly totals...
The new shoes have been well and truly christened now, so I feel a 10 miler coming on right now... last week was about 27 miles, so hoping to do around 35 this week then taper next week ready for the Bullock Smithy... never quite sure I am doing these things right, but we'll see!
Labels: Bullock Smithy Hike, gym, running shoes
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
The Kent 50 Mile Challenge
This was a toughie- I think I underestimated quite how tough it was going to be! 50 miles in 15 hours was always going to be tight, and to make it even worse, the eight laps were each 6.55 miles long, which actually made the event 52.5 miles!
I drove down to the Travelodge kindly booked by Carol (negotiating the Dartford Crossing and Toll for the first time ever, plus a hold up on the M25 due to an accident) and met Carol, Rach and Rose, all doing the MdS in 2009.
We had a good natter, discussed kit, and looked at the kit Carol has already aquired (she is so organised!!) I made drinks and managed to knock one over, then we went to the start to recce and register to save us time in the morning (a good thing as it turned out!)
The start (and finish) was at The Gate Inn at Marshside, and was organised by Mike, who is an MdS (and Gobi) veteran; he handed us a bottle of water and a lion bar each and gave some hints on the MdS. It appears that quite a few of the check point volunteers and competitors have done it- it seemed surreal to find so many MdS vets in a small pub in a tiny village in Kent! We ordered a meal which Mike very kindly said was on him, and set an alarm for 4:45am!!
I don't quite know how, but we were a bit late getting to the start- I didn't notice the time, and think we just left late, plus the start was further than the 15 minutes away suggested in the information pack. We had a bit of a fright when a pigeon suddenly decided to end it all by disembowelling itself on Carol's windscreen! As we reached the village the challenge had already started, and we could see the competitors coming towards us, so we parked up, donned race numbers, used the loo and set off after them.
Rose had decided to run/ walk, so quickly went ahead, and me, Rach and Carol stuck together; due to the strict time limit, we had to maintain a quick pace if we were to have any hope of finishing. The course was 6.55 miles long, and consisted of grassy tracks, tarmac paths and roads, each lap starting and finishing at the pub. It was very flat, I don't know whether this was a contributory factor but both myself and Carol agreed that we felt worse much earlier on then we expected to feel. We had been concerned about the weather, as it had rained all day Saturday, and was drizzling a little when we set off; we were very luck though, the clouds cleared and it was sunny all day.
There were various manned checkpoints/ waterpoints; as the route was a figure of eight, we passed one chap twice on each lap- he was really supportive, giving us a round of applause each time he saw us and having a quick chat.
Carol had worked out the times we should be finishing each lap, and potential rest stops, but in reality we didn't really get the chance to stop for long. We took a few minutes at the end of lap two to fix our feet, but the rest of the time we only stopped for a quick loo break, and to fill up our drinks bottles with water or electrolyte.
I must admit, after lap three the scenery became rather mundane and monotonous, although it was scenic in parts; one stretch was full of butterflies. We were lapped by various runners, including one who called out, as he passed us, 'Have you seen my wife?' Carol queried what she looked like, and he made a gesture with his hand, saying 'About yea high... strawberry blonde...'
Rach and Carol
I had developed a blister before the end of lap two, which was annoying, and although I dressed it it didn't seem to get any easier. I developed one on the other foot, which I didn't dress to try to save some time, which was perhaps a mistake. Even more annoying was the fact that my feet swelled, and my shoes felt too small; I could feel my toes being squashed. Rach had only completed the Trailwalker, a 60 mile event, a few weeks before, so her feet hadn't properly healed from that. She must have been really suffering on Sunday, but kept up the pace. Carol had recurring hip and knee problems which were giving her some trouble. Bizarrely, our hands also swelled much more than I have ever experienced before, but it made undertaking tasks requiring dexterity quite difficult!
About halfway round lap 6, one of Rach's blisters popped and she was in agony. She told us to go on, so we did, but I felt really bad about leaving her. She text us later to say that she had finished after that lap, covering an impressive 40 miles on badly blistered feet!
The Gate- Start & Finish Of Each Lap!
Me and Carol ploughed on, and realised just how the time was slipping away; we ran back to the pub at the end of lap seven, as there was a cut off time for the last lap. We had both taken some pankillers, but they no longer seemed to be touching the pain! At one point, I felt a sudden excruciating pain as a blister popped and had to hobble for a few minutes until it settled down. I wasn't the only one though- we passed a runner who was walking very painfully, and said he couldn't run anymore. About ten minutes later, Carol said she heard a shriek from behind us, and thought 'That's a blister gone!' We reached the pub well inside of the cut off, and saw Rose, who had completed the full distance- she had done really well. Mike advised us, though, that he didn't think we would complete the last lap before 9pm, and advised us to cut the lap short- meaning we would have completed 49.8 miles.
We were undecided, as part of us badly wanted to complete the full lap, but as we neared the suggested cut off point, our bodies made the decision for us- if we had had more time, we could have done the full lap, but to finish before 9pm would have meant we would have had to really push ourselves after a day of already pushing to the limits. We did walk an additional 0.2 miles, measured by my Garmin, to make it a full 50 miles, and when we reached the pub again, Mike greeted us and gave us 50 mile medals. Rose was waiting, and we were given hot drinks and generally looked after by the organisers.
My feet are really painful- I have several black toenails, and had blisters under each large toe nail, which were actually lifting the nails up! I am aching, but luckily it's just muscular. Although we didn't quite do the full course distance, we still covered long distances, and it was my first 50 miler, so I am pleased. It was also quite a useful event in a way, as it seemed to mete out problems I hadn't encountered before, such as swollen feet- I am definately now considering using shoes a size larger. It was well worth driving down for this one, as it was lovely meeting the girls and having people to plan, walk, natter and socialise with!
I have had the details and comfirmation for the Bullock Smithy Hike, which is only four weeks away, so I am hoping me poor feet will have healed by then...
I drove down to the Travelodge kindly booked by Carol (negotiating the Dartford Crossing and Toll for the first time ever, plus a hold up on the M25 due to an accident) and met Carol, Rach and Rose, all doing the MdS in 2009.
We had a good natter, discussed kit, and looked at the kit Carol has already aquired (she is so organised!!) I made drinks and managed to knock one over, then we went to the start to recce and register to save us time in the morning (a good thing as it turned out!)
The start (and finish) was at The Gate Inn at Marshside, and was organised by Mike, who is an MdS (and Gobi) veteran; he handed us a bottle of water and a lion bar each and gave some hints on the MdS. It appears that quite a few of the check point volunteers and competitors have done it- it seemed surreal to find so many MdS vets in a small pub in a tiny village in Kent! We ordered a meal which Mike very kindly said was on him, and set an alarm for 4:45am!!
I don't quite know how, but we were a bit late getting to the start- I didn't notice the time, and think we just left late, plus the start was further than the 15 minutes away suggested in the information pack. We had a bit of a fright when a pigeon suddenly decided to end it all by disembowelling itself on Carol's windscreen! As we reached the village the challenge had already started, and we could see the competitors coming towards us, so we parked up, donned race numbers, used the loo and set off after them.
Rose had decided to run/ walk, so quickly went ahead, and me, Rach and Carol stuck together; due to the strict time limit, we had to maintain a quick pace if we were to have any hope of finishing. The course was 6.55 miles long, and consisted of grassy tracks, tarmac paths and roads, each lap starting and finishing at the pub. It was very flat, I don't know whether this was a contributory factor but both myself and Carol agreed that we felt worse much earlier on then we expected to feel. We had been concerned about the weather, as it had rained all day Saturday, and was drizzling a little when we set off; we were very luck though, the clouds cleared and it was sunny all day.
There were various manned checkpoints/ waterpoints; as the route was a figure of eight, we passed one chap twice on each lap- he was really supportive, giving us a round of applause each time he saw us and having a quick chat.Carol had worked out the times we should be finishing each lap, and potential rest stops, but in reality we didn't really get the chance to stop for long. We took a few minutes at the end of lap two to fix our feet, but the rest of the time we only stopped for a quick loo break, and to fill up our drinks bottles with water or electrolyte.
I must admit, after lap three the scenery became rather mundane and monotonous, although it was scenic in parts; one stretch was full of butterflies. We were lapped by various runners, including one who called out, as he passed us, 'Have you seen my wife?' Carol queried what she looked like, and he made a gesture with his hand, saying 'About yea high... strawberry blonde...'
Rach and CarolI had developed a blister before the end of lap two, which was annoying, and although I dressed it it didn't seem to get any easier. I developed one on the other foot, which I didn't dress to try to save some time, which was perhaps a mistake. Even more annoying was the fact that my feet swelled, and my shoes felt too small; I could feel my toes being squashed. Rach had only completed the Trailwalker, a 60 mile event, a few weeks before, so her feet hadn't properly healed from that. She must have been really suffering on Sunday, but kept up the pace. Carol had recurring hip and knee problems which were giving her some trouble. Bizarrely, our hands also swelled much more than I have ever experienced before, but it made undertaking tasks requiring dexterity quite difficult!
About halfway round lap 6, one of Rach's blisters popped and she was in agony. She told us to go on, so we did, but I felt really bad about leaving her. She text us later to say that she had finished after that lap, covering an impressive 40 miles on badly blistered feet!
The Gate- Start & Finish Of Each Lap!Me and Carol ploughed on, and realised just how the time was slipping away; we ran back to the pub at the end of lap seven, as there was a cut off time for the last lap. We had both taken some pankillers, but they no longer seemed to be touching the pain! At one point, I felt a sudden excruciating pain as a blister popped and had to hobble for a few minutes until it settled down. I wasn't the only one though- we passed a runner who was walking very painfully, and said he couldn't run anymore. About ten minutes later, Carol said she heard a shriek from behind us, and thought 'That's a blister gone!' We reached the pub well inside of the cut off, and saw Rose, who had completed the full distance- she had done really well. Mike advised us, though, that he didn't think we would complete the last lap before 9pm, and advised us to cut the lap short- meaning we would have completed 49.8 miles.
We were undecided, as part of us badly wanted to complete the full lap, but as we neared the suggested cut off point, our bodies made the decision for us- if we had had more time, we could have done the full lap, but to finish before 9pm would have meant we would have had to really push ourselves after a day of already pushing to the limits. We did walk an additional 0.2 miles, measured by my Garmin, to make it a full 50 miles, and when we reached the pub again, Mike greeted us and gave us 50 mile medals. Rose was waiting, and we were given hot drinks and generally looked after by the organisers.
My feet are really painful- I have several black toenails, and had blisters under each large toe nail, which were actually lifting the nails up! I am aching, but luckily it's just muscular. Although we didn't quite do the full course distance, we still covered long distances, and it was my first 50 miler, so I am pleased. It was also quite a useful event in a way, as it seemed to mete out problems I hadn't encountered before, such as swollen feet- I am definately now considering using shoes a size larger. It was well worth driving down for this one, as it was lovely meeting the girls and having people to plan, walk, natter and socialise with!
I have had the details and comfirmation for the Bullock Smithy Hike, which is only four weeks away, so I am hoping me poor feet will have healed by then...
Labels: Bullock Smithy Hike, Kent 50
Wednesday, August 06, 2008
Nothing Much Doing...
... I haven't done an awful lot this week... sort of tapering for the Kent 50; Saturday I actually did such a good job of procrastinating, that I only managed 7 miles with a light pack and I've been feeling guilty ever since! Especially as it's getting close to 'that' time of the month so have also been eating loads of chocolate... mind you, chocolate must contain carbs, right!?
I did redeem myself by going to the gym Sunday, but stuck to only 20 minutes on the treadmill- I know I should be tapering but I am never quite sure how much or little I should actually be doing!?!
I went out last night to a slow jog sans pack- about 8 miles, with the MP3. I am thinking of going to the gym tomorrow but only doing a very light cardio workout and concentrating more on weights. I've not been back to body toning, mainly because 1; it's not that challenging and there is other stuff I could be doing instead, and 2; I am skint- and still have the MdS to pay for plus equipment to buy... my gym membership includes all classes there, so I really ought to get off my butt and join some!
The Kent 50- This is (obviously) a 50 mile event, consisting of 8 cross country laps of just over 6 1/2 miles each. There is a time limit of 15 hours, which is actually quite tight; I did have reservations about an event involving doing laps round a field, but the bonus is that we can leave packs at the start point, and access our stuff at the end of each lap. This will be my first 50 miler, and a milestone (lierally!) if I can complete it... I have also sent off my entry form for the Bullock Smithy Hike in September.
I am meeting Carol and Rach- fellow forum buddies and 2009 MdSers, which will be great- we are staying in a Travelodge the night before, so can discuss tactics.
I am also having my ears syringed tomorrow... which I am not looking forward to... actually the hearing seems to have returned today for the first time, but suppose I'd still better go through with it...
I did redeem myself by going to the gym Sunday, but stuck to only 20 minutes on the treadmill- I know I should be tapering but I am never quite sure how much or little I should actually be doing!?!
I went out last night to a slow jog sans pack- about 8 miles, with the MP3. I am thinking of going to the gym tomorrow but only doing a very light cardio workout and concentrating more on weights. I've not been back to body toning, mainly because 1; it's not that challenging and there is other stuff I could be doing instead, and 2; I am skint- and still have the MdS to pay for plus equipment to buy... my gym membership includes all classes there, so I really ought to get off my butt and join some!
The Kent 50- This is (obviously) a 50 mile event, consisting of 8 cross country laps of just over 6 1/2 miles each. There is a time limit of 15 hours, which is actually quite tight; I did have reservations about an event involving doing laps round a field, but the bonus is that we can leave packs at the start point, and access our stuff at the end of each lap. This will be my first 50 miler, and a milestone (lierally!) if I can complete it... I have also sent off my entry form for the Bullock Smithy Hike in September.
I am meeting Carol and Rach- fellow forum buddies and 2009 MdSers, which will be great- we are staying in a Travelodge the night before, so can discuss tactics.
I am also having my ears syringed tomorrow... which I am not looking forward to... actually the hearing seems to have returned today for the first time, but suppose I'd still better go through with it...
Labels: Bullock Smithy Hike, Ear Wax, Kent 50
Wednesday, July 25, 2007
Midweek Update...
Not been up to an awful lot since Saturday's trek. Monday I ran 4 1/2 miles, and picked up the pace a bit, and touch wood; still no Achilles pain, soreness or creaking- it really feels as though everything has suddenly gone back into place, but I am going to be very, very careful with it...
Tuesday I did some weight training at home, and used my cross trainer for an hour whilst watching Diet Doctors... excellent motivation!
I am going to see a friend tonight, so I will bike there, not sure how far it is but there are a couple of decent hills! I am having to pick up the pace a bit as I intend to enter the Dovedale Dipper and also the Bullock Smithy, which eluded me last year (damn chest infection!!)
I am also, very slooowly, catching up with my holiday blog- it just takes ages to upload the photos!!
Tuesday I did some weight training at home, and used my cross trainer for an hour whilst watching Diet Doctors... excellent motivation!
I am going to see a friend tonight, so I will bike there, not sure how far it is but there are a couple of decent hills! I am having to pick up the pace a bit as I intend to enter the Dovedale Dipper and also the Bullock Smithy, which eluded me last year (damn chest infection!!)
I am also, very slooowly, catching up with my holiday blog- it just takes ages to upload the photos!!
Labels: achilles tendonitis, Bullock Smithy Hike, Dovedale Dipper
Monday, April 30, 2007
Valleys 'N' Views Event Report
Yesterday was the 'Valleys & Views' walk organised by the Waendel Walking Club. I'd done this one for the past two years, and it's quite an easy one; good paths, gentler rolling hills etc, so decided to go for it! No piccies I'm afraid... I got my camera out and it was deader than a dead thing. I suspect flat batteries but it was very nice of it to let me know they were on the way out... not...
Anyway, it was a rolling start, with walkers starting anywhere from 7:30am until 9am. There were 3 distances; 6 miles, 17 miles and my route 26 miles... I got to the start point at the Village Hall in the village of Wilbaston, and had a cuppa before setting off at 8:09am. The weather had been glorious Saturday, but typically enough it was grey, cloudy and bloody freezing!
The route is in a quite lovely part of the Welland valley, and very colourful with the yellow rapeseed fields providing quite a stunning backdrop. The beginning of the walk took me up and over a series of hills, through various fields, before dropping down to the first checkpoint in Ashley for a cold drink and lump of cake.
there was then a bit of road walking before turning onto a bridleway, I must say, there are a lot of good bridleways in this area. Saw quite a lot of mountain bikers taking advantage. A couple of faster walkers overtook me, and I had to have an unscheduled pee stop! My Achilles was making itself felt, but not actually hurting, but I wondered if I was being a bit silly.
The next check point (and more cake!) was at the point where our bridleway exited onto the road, then our route climbed through Cranoe and onto the Midshires Way. One of the chaps who'd overtaken me was just ahead, and as we crossed over a rough road to rejoin the track, another chap passed me and assured me the route went straight ahead until Tugby.
Only I studied my route description and wasn't sure. The first year I did it we went straight ahead, but last year we turned left off the track, and the route description seemed to me to point this way. The two chaps had strode off into the distance by this point, but another group of four came up and saw me dithering. "It's straight on" the leader said, a guy wearing a burgundy Waendel Walking Club top covered in cloth badges depicting various walks/ events. I voiced my doubts, and he said "You see that chap who went ahead... that's Roger. He helps organise this so he would have picked up on it if we needed to turn off".
It would have just been easier to have gone along with it... but it didn't feel right, so I explained why I thought we should turn left. The guys looked thoughtful, then looked at the route I was indicating, down the edge of a field. "People have been down there today" one noted. So they all followed me down the field and thankfully it became apparent that I was right, so they all thanked/ congratulated me before striding off into the distance!
I caught up with the guy with the badges- he did introduce himself but I can't remember his name! He said he had been out the night before and had a skinful, and so was finding it a little hard going. I left him chatting at the checkpoint in Tugby and left along with another chap who had driven up from down South to complete the walk.
The sun had started to come out, and it was getting quite warm. The route went along more fields and tracks- it was very good underfoot, it may be a good one to run next year! Me and the other chap got a little lost near Hallaton and ended up taking a slight short cut. The check point was lovely... cheese and pickle sarnies, and coffee... and loos...
There were others here who were doing the long route, the guy from down south left, and the guy with the badges came in. I left him drinking tea and fully expected him to pass me later on as he was a fast walker, but he didn't. I also saw Roger, who was entreating people not to tell anybody he went the wrong way! As I left the checkpoint, I passed a guy who seemed to be suffering with his feet, and slowly ascended to Blaston. I could feel my Achilles quite a bit, although it still wasn't painful... I was cursing myself a bit though and kept imagining it snapping suddenly!
There was a water point by the church in Drayton- the smallesr consecrated church in Leicestershire apparently. Some of the folk from the Tugby checkpoint were there with spare cake, which was very welcome! After this, the route went down a track, where I overtook a group of three walkers. We entered Middleton, and turned onto the Jurassic Way back towards Wilbaston. This has been revamped since last year, and is now a wide gravel track. I overtook another group of three, one of which kept bending over as though in pain.
I felt in suprisingly good shape though, apart from the Achilles sensation. I was wearing my old running shoes, and only ended up with a tiny heel blister! The last bit of the route was more fileds and tracks back to Wilbaston- I finished in 7 hours 47 minutes, not sure of last year's time but I'm sure it was quite a lot slower. The guy from down south had finished just ahead of me; I had a very welcome cuppa before driving home.
I had tea at mum's as it's little sis's 20th birthday today. My heel was quite sore and 'creaky', which was really frustrating. I put a bag of frozen peas on it before mum needed to cook them. When I got home, I iced it again, took a long hot bath, did my exercises and massaged it with Deep Heat. (dunno what they put in that but Lucky finds it strangely addictive).
It feels surprisingly good today! Back to normal, no grinding! Even my legs aren't aching that much! I really feel as though I could go out again and walk, which is encouraging, as of course in the MdS I will have to! I'm not, though- today needs to be a rest day to let my heel heal (sorry!!)
Plan of action... once I have got rid of this Achilles problem, I will keep on pushing myself to complete these walks faster, then gradually increase the weight of my pack. Next year I will introduce running/ walking, and try to build more emphasis on running. The MOB (Marathon of Britain) looks to be a possible warm up for the MdS- as well as being a hell of a challenge in it's own right. Plus it ends in Nottingham- and I work in Nottingham.
So far, my thoughts are; 2007... build up running mileage, build up speed on challenge walks. Complete the Bullock Smithy Hike in September (56 miles over 24 hours)
2008; build up pack weight, run or run/ walk challenge events. Complete the LDWA 100 (100 miles over 48 hours!!) Plus, of course, the MOB...
Oooh noo, 2009 feels closer already!!
Anyway, it was a rolling start, with walkers starting anywhere from 7:30am until 9am. There were 3 distances; 6 miles, 17 miles and my route 26 miles... I got to the start point at the Village Hall in the village of Wilbaston, and had a cuppa before setting off at 8:09am. The weather had been glorious Saturday, but typically enough it was grey, cloudy and bloody freezing!
The route is in a quite lovely part of the Welland valley, and very colourful with the yellow rapeseed fields providing quite a stunning backdrop. The beginning of the walk took me up and over a series of hills, through various fields, before dropping down to the first checkpoint in Ashley for a cold drink and lump of cake.
there was then a bit of road walking before turning onto a bridleway, I must say, there are a lot of good bridleways in this area. Saw quite a lot of mountain bikers taking advantage. A couple of faster walkers overtook me, and I had to have an unscheduled pee stop! My Achilles was making itself felt, but not actually hurting, but I wondered if I was being a bit silly.
The next check point (and more cake!) was at the point where our bridleway exited onto the road, then our route climbed through Cranoe and onto the Midshires Way. One of the chaps who'd overtaken me was just ahead, and as we crossed over a rough road to rejoin the track, another chap passed me and assured me the route went straight ahead until Tugby.
Only I studied my route description and wasn't sure. The first year I did it we went straight ahead, but last year we turned left off the track, and the route description seemed to me to point this way. The two chaps had strode off into the distance by this point, but another group of four came up and saw me dithering. "It's straight on" the leader said, a guy wearing a burgundy Waendel Walking Club top covered in cloth badges depicting various walks/ events. I voiced my doubts, and he said "You see that chap who went ahead... that's Roger. He helps organise this so he would have picked up on it if we needed to turn off".
It would have just been easier to have gone along with it... but it didn't feel right, so I explained why I thought we should turn left. The guys looked thoughtful, then looked at the route I was indicating, down the edge of a field. "People have been down there today" one noted. So they all followed me down the field and thankfully it became apparent that I was right, so they all thanked/ congratulated me before striding off into the distance!
I caught up with the guy with the badges- he did introduce himself but I can't remember his name! He said he had been out the night before and had a skinful, and so was finding it a little hard going. I left him chatting at the checkpoint in Tugby and left along with another chap who had driven up from down South to complete the walk.
The sun had started to come out, and it was getting quite warm. The route went along more fields and tracks- it was very good underfoot, it may be a good one to run next year! Me and the other chap got a little lost near Hallaton and ended up taking a slight short cut. The check point was lovely... cheese and pickle sarnies, and coffee... and loos...
There were others here who were doing the long route, the guy from down south left, and the guy with the badges came in. I left him drinking tea and fully expected him to pass me later on as he was a fast walker, but he didn't. I also saw Roger, who was entreating people not to tell anybody he went the wrong way! As I left the checkpoint, I passed a guy who seemed to be suffering with his feet, and slowly ascended to Blaston. I could feel my Achilles quite a bit, although it still wasn't painful... I was cursing myself a bit though and kept imagining it snapping suddenly!
There was a water point by the church in Drayton- the smallesr consecrated church in Leicestershire apparently. Some of the folk from the Tugby checkpoint were there with spare cake, which was very welcome! After this, the route went down a track, where I overtook a group of three walkers. We entered Middleton, and turned onto the Jurassic Way back towards Wilbaston. This has been revamped since last year, and is now a wide gravel track. I overtook another group of three, one of which kept bending over as though in pain.
I felt in suprisingly good shape though, apart from the Achilles sensation. I was wearing my old running shoes, and only ended up with a tiny heel blister! The last bit of the route was more fileds and tracks back to Wilbaston- I finished in 7 hours 47 minutes, not sure of last year's time but I'm sure it was quite a lot slower. The guy from down south had finished just ahead of me; I had a very welcome cuppa before driving home.
I had tea at mum's as it's little sis's 20th birthday today. My heel was quite sore and 'creaky', which was really frustrating. I put a bag of frozen peas on it before mum needed to cook them. When I got home, I iced it again, took a long hot bath, did my exercises and massaged it with Deep Heat. (dunno what they put in that but Lucky finds it strangely addictive).
It feels surprisingly good today! Back to normal, no grinding! Even my legs aren't aching that much! I really feel as though I could go out again and walk, which is encouraging, as of course in the MdS I will have to! I'm not, though- today needs to be a rest day to let my heel heal (sorry!!)
Plan of action... once I have got rid of this Achilles problem, I will keep on pushing myself to complete these walks faster, then gradually increase the weight of my pack. Next year I will introduce running/ walking, and try to build more emphasis on running. The MOB (Marathon of Britain) looks to be a possible warm up for the MdS- as well as being a hell of a challenge in it's own right. Plus it ends in Nottingham- and I work in Nottingham.
So far, my thoughts are; 2007... build up running mileage, build up speed on challenge walks. Complete the Bullock Smithy Hike in September (56 miles over 24 hours)
2008; build up pack weight, run or run/ walk challenge events. Complete the LDWA 100 (100 miles over 48 hours!!) Plus, of course, the MOB...
Oooh noo, 2009 feels closer already!!
Labels: Bullock Smithy Hike, Challenge walks, LDWA, Marathon des Sables, Marathon of Britain, Valleys and Views
