Wednesday, August 15, 2012
Norfolk Coast Path- Day One
Sorry I'm a bit late updating this! My last entry finished with me ensconced in the B and B in Hunstanton, contemplating the rather ruinous state of my feet and my swollen ankle...
Saturday morning I reinforced the compeed dressing with zinc oxide tape and headed down for a hearty breakfast. I was joined by a couple who told me that this was their fourth visit to the B and B; their first visit coincided with a hotel inspector's visit, and they were rather perturbed when he pulled out a metal probe and proceeded to check the temperature of his breakfast sausage!
The owners had kindly dried my shoes for me, and as my comfy socks were still wet I had to put on a pair of the new ones, but hoped that the dressing would keep them from rubbing too much. As I took my first tentative steps, the blisters and the ankle didn't feel too bad, and I hoped I was going to be able to keep my feet dry!
I reached the signpost marking the start of the Norfolk Coast Path;
I now faced retracing my steps to the end of the Peddars Way at Holme-Next-The-Sea, and recalling the agony of crossing the dunes the night before, I toyed with the idea of trying to find an inland path, but being a bit of a purist ended up walking the signed path- the dunes weren't quite so bad with dry feet!
I was still glad to see the now familiar sign post and stopped to fill my water bottle before heading away over the dunes on a track which soon became a boardwalk.
The track followed the line of the dunes and sea defenses, past Gore Point to a small copse of fir trees, where I bought an ice lolly from the Nature Reserve. From here the boardwalks led through the mud flats near Thornham, popular with twitchers; I saw a couple of oyster catchers which you may just be able to make out below;
Oyster Catchers!
Thornham used to be a thriving port before it silted up and became un-navigable, and the old wooden posts and parts of jetties can still be seen rising out of the marsh like the ghosts of a prosperous past.
The Remains Of The Old Port
After Thornham the route turned inland, and followed a surprisingly busy road uphill for over a mile, before turning left through fields. It was dry but rather dull, and I must say this was the worst part of the day for me. I caught up and passed three walkers and eventually reached the pretty village of Brancaster. My feet were aching and I could have really done with a coffee, but was not yet half way so was determined to press on for as long as I could.
Finally I was walking near to the sea again, which lifted my spirits a little, on a boardwalk over marshy ground at the back of the village. This ran all the way to Brancaster Staithe;
As the route passed by the Roman fort of Branodunum I decided to forget my sore feet and take a look at this unique slice of history. Unfortunately there was not a lot to see- just a field and an information board.
Brancaster Staithe appears to have a working port and boasts a cluster of run down sheds, a 'crab shack' selling freshly caught seafood and a jumbled collection of old boats and lobster pots.
Sign Post At Brancaster Staithe
Brancaster Staithe
It also boasts a service station and cafe, so as I was struggling to put one foot in front of the other I crawled in, feeling like a wreck, and treated myself to a jacket potato and hot chocolate.
I left 30 minutes later, passing the three walkers I had walked past earlier who were obviously doing the same route as myself. I felt so much better, and even had a spring in my step, which was quite lucky as I had to run back to collect my route notes I had left on the counter at the cafe!
The next part of the route followed the giant curve of the sea wall around Deepdale Marsh to the village of Burnham Overy Staithe. I was treated to the flat horizons and big skies Norfolk is famous for, and could see the tiny figure of Overy Windmill in the distance. I could also see the golden sands of Holkham beach, my next destination. It seemed tantalisingly close, yet is separated by a treacherous stretch of marsh land which can't be crossed safely. My initial spring in the step had worn off by the time I reached the outskirts of the village, and I had to buy a Feast lolly from a handy ice cream van to keep me going.
Approaching Burnham Overy Staithe
Overy Windmill
The Coast Path now traversed the vast expanse of Holkam Beach; this was the part I had been dreading all day. I was really tired, my ankle was throbbing, my feet were really starting to protest that they had done quite enough, thank you, and I now had a two mile stretch over soft, shifting sand- lovely!
The official route follows a path through the dunes, but I did as my guidebook suggested and stuck to the tide mark where the sand was wetter and more compacted. Apparently part of this beach is a designated naturist reserve; luckily it was too cold for anyone to get their kit off and all I saw were a couple of dead seals and a portaloo (which I took advantage of!)
Holkham Beach
In fact, it was quite deserted and desolate, and by the time I reached Holkham Gap I just wanted to finish. Although I have walked the next part, the track by the pine woods to Wells, many times it seemed to take forever today. It had also started to rain so I was not a happy camper when I finally reached Pinewoods Caravan Park.
Overall I had made pretty good time, and covered 23 miles, but although the blisters were only voicing mild concern, my ankle was far from happy. In fact my mum took one look at the swollen mass that used to be a nicely turned ankle and suggested that maybe walking another 24 miles on it tomorrow would not be the best idea, and that maybe I should consider postponing the final day. She suggested a day in Sheringham instead, and although I knew that I could complete the walk if I really wanted to, I also knew that it wouldn't be fun, it would be very painful and a real slog, with the possibility of doing more serious damage to the ankle and being out of action for months. I was also particularly concerned that I would not reach Cromer before the last Coast Hopper back to Wells at 5:40pm, so gave in to the fleshpots of Sheringham and its pretty shops and coffee shops...
So although I have not actually completed my objective of walking the Peddars Way and Norfolk Coast Path in one go, I have completed the Peddars Way and have completed half of the coast path. As the second half starts from Wells, I can go back down at any time and complete the other half.
We did have a nice day in Sheringham, shopping and having lots of coffees (real hard work!) but rather annoyingly it was really sunny and hot! Typical... it was probably a good thing I chose to rest my ankle though as it was sore for around a week afterwards and I had to ice it each night to reduce the swelling. In fact I can still feel it at certain times now.
Sunday it was time to hit the beach with Jake and his ball- again, hot and sunny with perfect blue skies and white fluffy clouds... tried not to get too annoyed!
Wells Beach
The Pinewoods
Saturday morning I reinforced the compeed dressing with zinc oxide tape and headed down for a hearty breakfast. I was joined by a couple who told me that this was their fourth visit to the B and B; their first visit coincided with a hotel inspector's visit, and they were rather perturbed when he pulled out a metal probe and proceeded to check the temperature of his breakfast sausage!
The owners had kindly dried my shoes for me, and as my comfy socks were still wet I had to put on a pair of the new ones, but hoped that the dressing would keep them from rubbing too much. As I took my first tentative steps, the blisters and the ankle didn't feel too bad, and I hoped I was going to be able to keep my feet dry!
I reached the signpost marking the start of the Norfolk Coast Path;
I was still glad to see the now familiar sign post and stopped to fill my water bottle before heading away over the dunes on a track which soon became a boardwalk.
Thornham used to be a thriving port before it silted up and became un-navigable, and the old wooden posts and parts of jetties can still be seen rising out of the marsh like the ghosts of a prosperous past.
After Thornham the route turned inland, and followed a surprisingly busy road uphill for over a mile, before turning left through fields. It was dry but rather dull, and I must say this was the worst part of the day for me. I caught up and passed three walkers and eventually reached the pretty village of Brancaster. My feet were aching and I could have really done with a coffee, but was not yet half way so was determined to press on for as long as I could.
Finally I was walking near to the sea again, which lifted my spirits a little, on a boardwalk over marshy ground at the back of the village. This ran all the way to Brancaster Staithe;
Brancaster Staithe appears to have a working port and boasts a cluster of run down sheds, a 'crab shack' selling freshly caught seafood and a jumbled collection of old boats and lobster pots.
It also boasts a service station and cafe, so as I was struggling to put one foot in front of the other I crawled in, feeling like a wreck, and treated myself to a jacket potato and hot chocolate.
I left 30 minutes later, passing the three walkers I had walked past earlier who were obviously doing the same route as myself. I felt so much better, and even had a spring in my step, which was quite lucky as I had to run back to collect my route notes I had left on the counter at the cafe!
The next part of the route followed the giant curve of the sea wall around Deepdale Marsh to the village of Burnham Overy Staithe. I was treated to the flat horizons and big skies Norfolk is famous for, and could see the tiny figure of Overy Windmill in the distance. I could also see the golden sands of Holkham beach, my next destination. It seemed tantalisingly close, yet is separated by a treacherous stretch of marsh land which can't be crossed safely. My initial spring in the step had worn off by the time I reached the outskirts of the village, and I had to buy a Feast lolly from a handy ice cream van to keep me going.
The Coast Path now traversed the vast expanse of Holkam Beach; this was the part I had been dreading all day. I was really tired, my ankle was throbbing, my feet were really starting to protest that they had done quite enough, thank you, and I now had a two mile stretch over soft, shifting sand- lovely!
The official route follows a path through the dunes, but I did as my guidebook suggested and stuck to the tide mark where the sand was wetter and more compacted. Apparently part of this beach is a designated naturist reserve; luckily it was too cold for anyone to get their kit off and all I saw were a couple of dead seals and a portaloo (which I took advantage of!)
In fact, it was quite deserted and desolate, and by the time I reached Holkham Gap I just wanted to finish. Although I have walked the next part, the track by the pine woods to Wells, many times it seemed to take forever today. It had also started to rain so I was not a happy camper when I finally reached Pinewoods Caravan Park.
Overall I had made pretty good time, and covered 23 miles, but although the blisters were only voicing mild concern, my ankle was far from happy. In fact my mum took one look at the swollen mass that used to be a nicely turned ankle and suggested that maybe walking another 24 miles on it tomorrow would not be the best idea, and that maybe I should consider postponing the final day. She suggested a day in Sheringham instead, and although I knew that I could complete the walk if I really wanted to, I also knew that it wouldn't be fun, it would be very painful and a real slog, with the possibility of doing more serious damage to the ankle and being out of action for months. I was also particularly concerned that I would not reach Cromer before the last Coast Hopper back to Wells at 5:40pm, so gave in to the fleshpots of Sheringham and its pretty shops and coffee shops...
So although I have not actually completed my objective of walking the Peddars Way and Norfolk Coast Path in one go, I have completed the Peddars Way and have completed half of the coast path. As the second half starts from Wells, I can go back down at any time and complete the other half.
We did have a nice day in Sheringham, shopping and having lots of coffees (real hard work!) but rather annoyingly it was really sunny and hot! Typical... it was probably a good thing I chose to rest my ankle though as it was sore for around a week afterwards and I had to ice it each night to reduce the swelling. In fact I can still feel it at certain times now.
Sunday it was time to hit the beach with Jake and his ball- again, hot and sunny with perfect blue skies and white fluffy clouds... tried not to get too annoyed!
Labels: Norfolk Coast Path, Wells-Next-The-Sea
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
A Relaxing Few Days!
I have been down to Wells-Next-The-Sea with mum, Katie and Gemma- Jake stayed with his Dad, sadly :-(
Luckily it was the week following the Ponton Plod so I was still recovering, so was able to take it quite easy. Wednesday night we walked onto the beach and watched hundreds of geese fly overhead;
Thursday we had a mooch round Sheringham in the rain and wind;
Me and Katie went for a run Thursday evening, we covered about 4- 5 miles on flint lined tracks and a path by the woods, disturbing a muntjac deer which went crashing off into the trees. We went at quite a good pace and I felt quite strong.
Friday we had an extremely windy walk around Hunstanton and endurance 2 penny slot machine playing...
Saturday we had a last walk round Wells before eating chips in the car and driving home;
I have made up for it since being back though, with a toughish gym session Sunday and a 19 mile run/ walk today (got the week off work)! I stayed fairly local, taking the cliff path through Radcliffe-on-Trent to Shelford and up to the bridleway by RAF Newton down to Saxondale village- didn't get lost this time!! I extended the walk by taking in a circuit of the Regatta Lake at Holme Pierrepont Watersports Centre, my legs were truly aching by this time but I still managed to run the last half mile home.
I need to go out and cover around 13 miles tomorrow, to try to get my body used to long walks on two consecutive days if I am going to be able to complete the Dave Lewis and Spires and Steeples on the same weekend. Unfortunately I have commitments for the next two Saturdays, so will need to fit in some kind of back to back stuff, even if it's a tough gym session after or before a long walk.
The two marathon days should be good training for this year's Brecons Ultra, which is drawing ever closer!
Luckily it was the week following the Ponton Plod so I was still recovering, so was able to take it quite easy. Wednesday night we walked onto the beach and watched hundreds of geese fly overhead;
Thursday we had a mooch round Sheringham in the rain and wind;
Me and Katie went for a run Thursday evening, we covered about 4- 5 miles on flint lined tracks and a path by the woods, disturbing a muntjac deer which went crashing off into the trees. We went at quite a good pace and I felt quite strong.
Friday we had an extremely windy walk around Hunstanton and endurance 2 penny slot machine playing...
Saturday we had a last walk round Wells before eating chips in the car and driving home;
I have made up for it since being back though, with a toughish gym session Sunday and a 19 mile run/ walk today (got the week off work)! I stayed fairly local, taking the cliff path through Radcliffe-on-Trent to Shelford and up to the bridleway by RAF Newton down to Saxondale village- didn't get lost this time!! I extended the walk by taking in a circuit of the Regatta Lake at Holme Pierrepont Watersports Centre, my legs were truly aching by this time but I still managed to run the last half mile home.
I need to go out and cover around 13 miles tomorrow, to try to get my body used to long walks on two consecutive days if I am going to be able to complete the Dave Lewis and Spires and Steeples on the same weekend. Unfortunately I have commitments for the next two Saturdays, so will need to fit in some kind of back to back stuff, even if it's a tough gym session after or before a long walk.
The two marathon days should be good training for this year's Brecons Ultra, which is drawing ever closer!
Labels: Brecons Ultra, Wells-Next-The-Sea
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
I'm Still Alive!!
Just!! Really must update more...
I have the Nottingham Ultra this Sunday- 50K starting in Blidworth and following the Robin Hood Way to finish at Nottingham Castle. Transport to the start from the castle is included. I would be looking forwards to it, but am suffering from the usual lack of training blues... I don't really feel as though I have done all that much.
Although I have been to the gym and I have been out; I went to Wells-Next-The-Sea for the weekend 7th to 8th August and didn't do much beyond the odd potter down to Wells and on the beach (I did run on the sand with Jake so that counts!). Luckily I booked a couple of days off work, so made up for it by doing a 15 mile walk/ run to Radcliffe-on-Trent and Shelford on Tuesday and a good gym session on Monday.
This weekend I went out for a 12 mile walk/ run Saturday and a yomp round my old stomping ground, Bradgate Park, before descending on mum for tea. Typical though- just because I had decided not to take a camera with me, a red deer stag bounded in front of me and posed for what would have been a great photo- sigh...
Does anyone else get those times in their lives when the motivation to train just isn't there? I will give it my best in Sunday, and at least there is no time limit, but I suspect that I will be last...
... in the meantime here are a couple of pics of my couple of days in Wells;
Rainbows And Boats
Dragonfly At Titchwell- A Ruddy Darter Apparently
Titchwell Nature Reserve
Gemma On The Beach
Jake- Sea And Shadows
I have the Nottingham Ultra this Sunday- 50K starting in Blidworth and following the Robin Hood Way to finish at Nottingham Castle. Transport to the start from the castle is included. I would be looking forwards to it, but am suffering from the usual lack of training blues... I don't really feel as though I have done all that much.
Although I have been to the gym and I have been out; I went to Wells-Next-The-Sea for the weekend 7th to 8th August and didn't do much beyond the odd potter down to Wells and on the beach (I did run on the sand with Jake so that counts!). Luckily I booked a couple of days off work, so made up for it by doing a 15 mile walk/ run to Radcliffe-on-Trent and Shelford on Tuesday and a good gym session on Monday.
This weekend I went out for a 12 mile walk/ run Saturday and a yomp round my old stomping ground, Bradgate Park, before descending on mum for tea. Typical though- just because I had decided not to take a camera with me, a red deer stag bounded in front of me and posed for what would have been a great photo- sigh...
Does anyone else get those times in their lives when the motivation to train just isn't there? I will give it my best in Sunday, and at least there is no time limit, but I suspect that I will be last...
... in the meantime here are a couple of pics of my couple of days in Wells;
Labels: Nottingham Ultra, Wells-Next-The-Sea
Monday, August 10, 2009
Back From The Seaside!
I am back from a really pleasant break with mum, little sis Katie and the dogs in mum's van at Wells-Next-The-Sea. We were really lucky with the weather- the only rain we had was overnight on Thursday night.
When we set off on Wednesday it was absolutely pouring, but by the time we got there Wells was bathed in sunshine and it was pretty warm. As usual the dogs were excited to be there; it is however impossible to go to the toilet quietly in the night in the van as Jake hears you get up and gets so excited to see somebody awake that he tries to get into the tiny toilet cubicle and wags his tail. Unfortunately his tail is approximately two thirds of his length and space in the van is somewhat limited, so he ends up beating a staccato against the bedroom doors and wakes everyone else.
We had a walk through the woods Wednesday, and I borrowed mum's bike later and went up the lane for 45 minutes, disturbing a baby hedgehog. Thursday we walked down into Wells and had a browse and bowl of salad and chips (a half healthy meal!) in The Globe, accompanied by wasps, which meant a great deal of dancing around from Katie as she is terrified of the stripy little b*ggers.
On Route To Wells
Friday was quite dull so we went for a look around nearby Fakenham, which seems to consist of craft shops, charity shops and a large Tescos. Everywhere seems quite dog friendly though and the dogs got a biscuit each at the first craft shop.
I had a walk out in the evening, down lanes which I later realised were marked as private land- oops! I saw a pair of tiny muntjac deer, but wasn't quick enough to photograph them- well I have a vague brown blob which could actually be anything. It was getting dark as I walked back down the footpath, and a small hollow had filled with mist, creating a most unusual effect as the footpath was completely clear.
Evening Mists
Saturday was a scorcher, so we packed up lunch and carried chairs to the beach, where we found a prime spot in the dunes. I had intended to go for a walk, but thought sod it, I don't often get chance to chillax on the beach. Jake decided to re-enact World War One by digging trenches in an attempt to bury his ball and we sat and read the papers.
Jake Digging For England
We played with the dogs in the water, and they were joined by a collie who just wanted to run with Jake but he wasn't really interested...
Jake In The Water
Gemma In The Water
Jake, Gemma And Friend
It was quite a lazy week, but I didn't feel too bad as I had done the Dovedale Dipper and probably needed a rest, well, that's my excuse!!
Perfect Sun, Sand, Sea And Sky...
I redeemed myself Sunday by hauling my ass into the gym and running for 30 minutes, covering 3 miles, so it's not all bad...
When we set off on Wednesday it was absolutely pouring, but by the time we got there Wells was bathed in sunshine and it was pretty warm. As usual the dogs were excited to be there; it is however impossible to go to the toilet quietly in the night in the van as Jake hears you get up and gets so excited to see somebody awake that he tries to get into the tiny toilet cubicle and wags his tail. Unfortunately his tail is approximately two thirds of his length and space in the van is somewhat limited, so he ends up beating a staccato against the bedroom doors and wakes everyone else.
We had a walk through the woods Wednesday, and I borrowed mum's bike later and went up the lane for 45 minutes, disturbing a baby hedgehog. Thursday we walked down into Wells and had a browse and bowl of salad and chips (a half healthy meal!) in The Globe, accompanied by wasps, which meant a great deal of dancing around from Katie as she is terrified of the stripy little b*ggers.
On Route To Wells
Friday was quite dull so we went for a look around nearby Fakenham, which seems to consist of craft shops, charity shops and a large Tescos. Everywhere seems quite dog friendly though and the dogs got a biscuit each at the first craft shop.
I had a walk out in the evening, down lanes which I later realised were marked as private land- oops! I saw a pair of tiny muntjac deer, but wasn't quick enough to photograph them- well I have a vague brown blob which could actually be anything. It was getting dark as I walked back down the footpath, and a small hollow had filled with mist, creating a most unusual effect as the footpath was completely clear.
Evening Mists
Saturday was a scorcher, so we packed up lunch and carried chairs to the beach, where we found a prime spot in the dunes. I had intended to go for a walk, but thought sod it, I don't often get chance to chillax on the beach. Jake decided to re-enact World War One by digging trenches in an attempt to bury his ball and we sat and read the papers.
Jake Digging For England
We played with the dogs in the water, and they were joined by a collie who just wanted to run with Jake but he wasn't really interested...
Jake In The Water
Gemma In The Water
Jake, Gemma And Friend
It was quite a lazy week, but I didn't feel too bad as I had done the Dovedale Dipper and probably needed a rest, well, that's my excuse!!
Perfect Sun, Sand, Sea And Sky...
I redeemed myself Sunday by hauling my ass into the gym and running for 30 minutes, covering 3 miles, so it's not all bad...
Labels: gym, Wells-Next-The-Sea
Tuesday, August 04, 2009
Event Report- The Dove Dale Dipper
I decided it was high time I actually took part in something a bit more endurancy than a run up the road, so hauled myself to Hartington to take part in this year's Dipper. I didn't do this last year as I opted for the Kent 50 instead, so was quite looking forward to it.
I parked up and grabbed a coffee, seeing a few folk I know including Sue, who is a stalwart at these events, and Stuart, who organises the Ponton Plod.
It is usually very, very hot but this year was a bit of an exception- as we were crowded in the street, ready for the blast of the horn to signal the 'off', one of the organisers said he wasn't going to give his usual speech on using enough sunscreen (although I had put some on) and warned that as July had been so very wet, parts of the course was very slippery, particularly the stone path down into Milldale (I am so notoriously bad at going downhill I worried about this all day!) I had opted to wear my newish running shoes as my old ones have truly had it and need chucking.
We set off- I am not going to give a detailed description of the route as I have covered this before in 2007 event reports. We started to climb, and I saw Ian, who I met on the Waltham Winder and Spires and Steeples last year. Stuart passed me, and I assured him I will be putting in my entry for the Ponton Plod very soon! He is a very fast walker.
We reached the High Peak Trail and I had a little jog along here to the checkpoint at Sparklow- I passed Stuart and his friend, and ended up leapfrogging them a few times throughout the day before they lost me for good!
The High Peak Trail
The weather was a little cloudy but dry, and luckily remained dry all day- though sadly not underfoot! A lot of the fields had very muddy patched which were impossible to avoid. There were also a lot of fields with cows in- some were indifferent but others were quite curious, crowding and making loud sniffing noises (I expect I stunk!) I adopted a strategy of dealing with cows... jog to catch up with the person in front and use them as a shield!
Descending
The route to Longnor is quite undulating, I ran some of the flatter and downhill bits (although some were rather muddy). We ran into a little trouble- I was following a few others downhill through a field towards the road, on a clearly defined path through the grass, when some walkers ahead turned back- apparently we had missed the path, and the landowner was waiting at the bottom, with a camera- we retraced our steps and found a very unobvious stile which led into a field full of cows!
Ominous Clouds!
You Can See The Path Ascending To Longnor On The Left Of The Photo
There is a sharp ascent on a track into Longnor and the second checkpoint, where the angry landowner was berating the poor checkpoint volunteers about all the walkers and runners clambering over his gate. I totally wasn't concentrating when I left the checkpoint and nearly missed the turning- luckily a couple of blokes called me!
This part of the route was extremely wet- at one point we had to follow a path through a patch of gorse, and my feet just sunk in the water up to ankle level- I ended up with wet feet for most of the day. Just before the third checkpoint, we had to wade through a field of crops which was practically a pool!
The chap at the checkpoint reckoned that you could tell the runners from the walkers as the runners had mud higher up their legs!
This was half way, and there was still the climb up Ecton Hill to come- but first there was more mud to be negotiated.
Looking Towards The Folly And Ecton Hill
Finally I could see Ecton Hill in front of me and after a little more mud sliding downhill, attempted the climb- which is just long and steep, and a bit of a slog. I could tell I hadn't done this in a while!!
Ascending Ecton Hill
There is a fantastic view from the top though, but difficult to do justice in a photo. There is a lovely scenic walk along the side of the hill before dropping to the road.
I had remembered a certain part of the route here I thought may possibly be muddy- well, it wasn't just mud- it was ankle deep, wet, gluttinous, extremely sticky mud! A few lady runners ahead were struggling to keep their balance and I failed miserable, landing on my bum. One of the runners took a photo of her feet in the mud and I was tempted to do the same, but my hands were covered in mud and I was worried about getting it all over my camera!
I tried to walk forwards and ended up on my bum for a second time. I put my hands out to save myself so looked as though I was wearing a pair of elbow high dark gloves! I am so glad I had the foresight to take a plastic sleeve for the route description or it would have been unreadable! (And my comments are sadly unprintable!!)
I must have looked a sight, as after the final steep ascent to Whetton I passed a group of walkers going the other way, who looked at me in amazement and said 'Where have you been!?!'
A nice chap at the Whetton checkpoint helped me to wash my hands- I thought I'd better before spreading mud over the cake on offer!
The route to Castern Hall and the next checkpoint was pretty straightforward, I had a little run downhill but a group of walkers caught me up at the checkpoint. There were crisps on offer which made a nice change from sweet stuff and offered some salt. I had a chocolate flavour energy bar with me but didn't really like it.
Finally, after more fields full of cows...
Cows...
... it was time for the descent to Milldale which had been giving me concern all day. I had to pick my way down, as the limestone stones were covered in mud, making them very slippery, and my by now completely mud covered running shoes offered no grip at all. I had to stop and let loads of folk go by and was rather put out when one woman just ran downhill as though it was nothing!
I knew that the route was easy from Milldale to the end, and had a little (very slow) jog to the last checkpoint. I followed a group of walkers up Wolfscote Dale who were keeping a very good pace, which I tried to match- I was too tired to jog at this point. The path through Wolfscote Dale is around 3 miles, and would usually be lovely, but after 23 miles it becomes a bit of a drag and seems endless!
Finally we turned off, and were on the fields and tracks back to Hartington. A few runners passed me, and when we went downhill I looked at my watch and realised it was nearly 5pm- I decided it would be good to try to get in dead on 5, so started a slow, shambling jog, passing the group of walkers I'd been trailing through the dale. As I neared the village, I heard footsteps behind me, and the group had all decided to go for a jog finish, so we all finished together in 8 hours exactly!
I grabbed a coffee and realised that the queue for jacket potatoes was growing, so thought I'd best join it. It didn't appear to be moving, and somebody said that they were waiting for more potatoes to be delivered. This took 10 minutes- a long time when all you want to do is sit down! There was a huge sigh of relief and the queue started to move again- but just as I got to the counter and was about to request cheese and beans they ran out again! I felt ready to murder the woman who'd been in front of me as she had taken two- one for her and a friend! It took nearly half an hour to get one- but they were nice...
When I got home, I realised that my previous Dipper PB had been 8 hours 30 minutes, so I had beaten it by half an hour! I know I had a really heavy pack when I last completed it but I was quite pleased as I haven't done anything for a while!
Not that I will be doing a lot this week as I am off to Wells tomorrow to spend some time with mum and my little sis- and the dogs...
I parked up and grabbed a coffee, seeing a few folk I know including Sue, who is a stalwart at these events, and Stuart, who organises the Ponton Plod.
It is usually very, very hot but this year was a bit of an exception- as we were crowded in the street, ready for the blast of the horn to signal the 'off', one of the organisers said he wasn't going to give his usual speech on using enough sunscreen (although I had put some on) and warned that as July had been so very wet, parts of the course was very slippery, particularly the stone path down into Milldale (I am so notoriously bad at going downhill I worried about this all day!) I had opted to wear my newish running shoes as my old ones have truly had it and need chucking.
We set off- I am not going to give a detailed description of the route as I have covered this before in 2007 event reports. We started to climb, and I saw Ian, who I met on the Waltham Winder and Spires and Steeples last year. Stuart passed me, and I assured him I will be putting in my entry for the Ponton Plod very soon! He is a very fast walker.
We reached the High Peak Trail and I had a little jog along here to the checkpoint at Sparklow- I passed Stuart and his friend, and ended up leapfrogging them a few times throughout the day before they lost me for good!
The High Peak Trail
The weather was a little cloudy but dry, and luckily remained dry all day- though sadly not underfoot! A lot of the fields had very muddy patched which were impossible to avoid. There were also a lot of fields with cows in- some were indifferent but others were quite curious, crowding and making loud sniffing noises (I expect I stunk!) I adopted a strategy of dealing with cows... jog to catch up with the person in front and use them as a shield!
Descending
The route to Longnor is quite undulating, I ran some of the flatter and downhill bits (although some were rather muddy). We ran into a little trouble- I was following a few others downhill through a field towards the road, on a clearly defined path through the grass, when some walkers ahead turned back- apparently we had missed the path, and the landowner was waiting at the bottom, with a camera- we retraced our steps and found a very unobvious stile which led into a field full of cows!
Ominous Clouds!
You Can See The Path Ascending To Longnor On The Left Of The Photo
There is a sharp ascent on a track into Longnor and the second checkpoint, where the angry landowner was berating the poor checkpoint volunteers about all the walkers and runners clambering over his gate. I totally wasn't concentrating when I left the checkpoint and nearly missed the turning- luckily a couple of blokes called me!
This part of the route was extremely wet- at one point we had to follow a path through a patch of gorse, and my feet just sunk in the water up to ankle level- I ended up with wet feet for most of the day. Just before the third checkpoint, we had to wade through a field of crops which was practically a pool!
The chap at the checkpoint reckoned that you could tell the runners from the walkers as the runners had mud higher up their legs!
This was half way, and there was still the climb up Ecton Hill to come- but first there was more mud to be negotiated.
Looking Towards The Folly And Ecton Hill
Finally I could see Ecton Hill in front of me and after a little more mud sliding downhill, attempted the climb- which is just long and steep, and a bit of a slog. I could tell I hadn't done this in a while!!
Ascending Ecton Hill
There is a fantastic view from the top though, but difficult to do justice in a photo. There is a lovely scenic walk along the side of the hill before dropping to the road.
I had remembered a certain part of the route here I thought may possibly be muddy- well, it wasn't just mud- it was ankle deep, wet, gluttinous, extremely sticky mud! A few lady runners ahead were struggling to keep their balance and I failed miserable, landing on my bum. One of the runners took a photo of her feet in the mud and I was tempted to do the same, but my hands were covered in mud and I was worried about getting it all over my camera!
I tried to walk forwards and ended up on my bum for a second time. I put my hands out to save myself so looked as though I was wearing a pair of elbow high dark gloves! I am so glad I had the foresight to take a plastic sleeve for the route description or it would have been unreadable! (And my comments are sadly unprintable!!)
I must have looked a sight, as after the final steep ascent to Whetton I passed a group of walkers going the other way, who looked at me in amazement and said 'Where have you been!?!'
A nice chap at the Whetton checkpoint helped me to wash my hands- I thought I'd better before spreading mud over the cake on offer!
The route to Castern Hall and the next checkpoint was pretty straightforward, I had a little run downhill but a group of walkers caught me up at the checkpoint. There were crisps on offer which made a nice change from sweet stuff and offered some salt. I had a chocolate flavour energy bar with me but didn't really like it.
Finally, after more fields full of cows...
Cows...
... it was time for the descent to Milldale which had been giving me concern all day. I had to pick my way down, as the limestone stones were covered in mud, making them very slippery, and my by now completely mud covered running shoes offered no grip at all. I had to stop and let loads of folk go by and was rather put out when one woman just ran downhill as though it was nothing!
I knew that the route was easy from Milldale to the end, and had a little (very slow) jog to the last checkpoint. I followed a group of walkers up Wolfscote Dale who were keeping a very good pace, which I tried to match- I was too tired to jog at this point. The path through Wolfscote Dale is around 3 miles, and would usually be lovely, but after 23 miles it becomes a bit of a drag and seems endless!
Finally we turned off, and were on the fields and tracks back to Hartington. A few runners passed me, and when we went downhill I looked at my watch and realised it was nearly 5pm- I decided it would be good to try to get in dead on 5, so started a slow, shambling jog, passing the group of walkers I'd been trailing through the dale. As I neared the village, I heard footsteps behind me, and the group had all decided to go for a jog finish, so we all finished together in 8 hours exactly!
I grabbed a coffee and realised that the queue for jacket potatoes was growing, so thought I'd best join it. It didn't appear to be moving, and somebody said that they were waiting for more potatoes to be delivered. This took 10 minutes- a long time when all you want to do is sit down! There was a huge sigh of relief and the queue started to move again- but just as I got to the counter and was about to request cheese and beans they ran out again! I felt ready to murder the woman who'd been in front of me as she had taken two- one for her and a friend! It took nearly half an hour to get one- but they were nice...
When I got home, I realised that my previous Dipper PB had been 8 hours 30 minutes, so I had beaten it by half an hour! I know I had a really heavy pack when I last completed it but I was quite pleased as I haven't done anything for a while!
Not that I will be doing a lot this week as I am off to Wells tomorrow to spend some time with mum and my little sis- and the dogs...
Labels: Dovedale Dipper, Ponton Plod, Wells-Next-The-Sea
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Another Bank Holiday Weekend...
I must admit I've been a bit lazy this week... haven't done that much really, I had intended going to the gym tonight but just kind of 'goofed off', although I did end up going for a short 4 mile walk as it was a surprisingly nice evening.
I am dog sitting tomorrow night- looking after mum's dogs Jake and Gemma whilst mum and step dad go to a wedding. I have a sneaky feeling I will end up sharing a bed with a cocker spaniel and a rat, sorry, miniature Yorkshire Terrier. Oh yes, and don't forget the cat- 18 year old Rosie who has been on her last legs for the past two years!!
I am following them down to the caravan at Wells-Next-The-Sea Sunday though til Tuesday. I guess I will do some walking down there, there's a nice walk by the woods to Holkham Hall we usually do.
I really do have to get back into running next week, and not just on the treadmill. I have been eating lots of crap and feel really flabby and unfit- it's amazing how difficult it can be to motivate yourself when there's nothing immediate to train for!
I am dog sitting tomorrow night- looking after mum's dogs Jake and Gemma whilst mum and step dad go to a wedding. I have a sneaky feeling I will end up sharing a bed with a cocker spaniel and a rat, sorry, miniature Yorkshire Terrier. Oh yes, and don't forget the cat- 18 year old Rosie who has been on her last legs for the past two years!!
I am following them down to the caravan at Wells-Next-The-Sea Sunday though til Tuesday. I guess I will do some walking down there, there's a nice walk by the woods to Holkham Hall we usually do.
I really do have to get back into running next week, and not just on the treadmill. I have been eating lots of crap and feel really flabby and unfit- it's amazing how difficult it can be to motivate yourself when there's nothing immediate to train for!
Labels: Wells-Next-The-Sea
Sunday, August 17, 2008
Back From Wells
Back from sunny Wells-Next-The-Sea, and I'm rather disappointed... I had gone with the intention of doing a little dune/ beach running, but could hardly walk!! My toes seemed to get worse and worse Wednesday and Thursday, especially the big toes- it felt like a dull ache with a sharper pain around the nails. To make matters worse, everytime Jake (the mad dog) became excited about something (which was literally everytime me or mum stood up) he danced around and stood on them, so I spent a large portion of the break swearing!!
Mum was also in pain- she had taken Jake out a few days before, and he started playing with a spaniel friend; the game got a bit wild and they ended up crashing into her leg, leaving it swollen and bruised.
We did get out and about though, as the dogs needed walking... Wednesday it poured and poured when we arrived, huge puddles forming around the caravans. We did chance a walk in the rain, but didn't go too far.
Thursday it was a lot drier, so we walked down into Wells, and back- probably around 3 miles including wandering around the town.
Walking Down to Wells- I Wasn't Holding The Camera Straight!
We stopped for a cappucino outside the Globe Inn- it's a tough life!! Wells is a quiet little place compared to some resorts- it has only one or two amusement arcades situated discreetly and quietly out of the way; it's a place of tea shops and quaint gift/ craft shops, not discos, sirens and noise. The site the van is on, Pinewoods, is the main caravan and camping site in the area, but there is no clubhouse or karaoke evenings, just a little shop and cafe. It's ideal for older folks and bird watchers...
We went for a walk later on, through the woods to let the dogs off for a run; my toes felt so tender, but I tried soaking my feet in a bucket of cold water every night, which I think helped. I couldn't imagine being able to carry on in the MdS like this!
I showed my mum the DVD of Ben Fogle completing the MdS, kindly lent to me by Carol; she didn't seem too fazed watching people receiving IV's, struggling to walk with mutilated feet and grown men crying, but towards the end, she said "Now, you mustn't be too down if you don't manage to do it..."
The Pinewoods
Friday was glorious, really warm and sunny, so we went for quite a long walk (for us, as we were both suffering) through the lanes near the site, and down into the woods. I couldn't physically wear my running shoes, so used a pair of trainers I have that are so old they are practically like slippers. I felt that I was walking on my heels, which must have put more pressure on my calf muscles, as they have been aching ever since.
It was quite good to talk with mum, as we tried to persuade Gemma, the fat Yorkie, that she really did want to run, and Jake that he really didn't want to eat horse sh*t. We walked through the woods for a while;
Me, Jake and Gemma!
Before heading on to the beach. I had to be content by walking slowly along the edge of the dunes, and gently up and down them...
I shuffled down into Wells in the afternoon on my own- should probably have rested really but hey- then we took the dogs out on another little walk later.
Saturday we went out on another walk along the lanes in a vain attempt to tire Jake out for the journey home... I guess I must have walked a fair bit over the four days, although very slowly and on my heels...
The toes are still very tender, but feel quite a bit better (had a good old blister pop last night...) I may try to pull on the running shoes very soon and try a wee stroll; it is driving me nuts doing nothing!! I have the Bullock Smithy in three weeks time...
Mum was also in pain- she had taken Jake out a few days before, and he started playing with a spaniel friend; the game got a bit wild and they ended up crashing into her leg, leaving it swollen and bruised.
We did get out and about though, as the dogs needed walking... Wednesday it poured and poured when we arrived, huge puddles forming around the caravans. We did chance a walk in the rain, but didn't go too far.
Thursday it was a lot drier, so we walked down into Wells, and back- probably around 3 miles including wandering around the town.
Walking Down to Wells- I Wasn't Holding The Camera Straight!We stopped for a cappucino outside the Globe Inn- it's a tough life!! Wells is a quiet little place compared to some resorts- it has only one or two amusement arcades situated discreetly and quietly out of the way; it's a place of tea shops and quaint gift/ craft shops, not discos, sirens and noise. The site the van is on, Pinewoods, is the main caravan and camping site in the area, but there is no clubhouse or karaoke evenings, just a little shop and cafe. It's ideal for older folks and bird watchers...
We went for a walk later on, through the woods to let the dogs off for a run; my toes felt so tender, but I tried soaking my feet in a bucket of cold water every night, which I think helped. I couldn't imagine being able to carry on in the MdS like this!
I showed my mum the DVD of Ben Fogle completing the MdS, kindly lent to me by Carol; she didn't seem too fazed watching people receiving IV's, struggling to walk with mutilated feet and grown men crying, but towards the end, she said "Now, you mustn't be too down if you don't manage to do it..."
The PinewoodsFriday was glorious, really warm and sunny, so we went for quite a long walk (for us, as we were both suffering) through the lanes near the site, and down into the woods. I couldn't physically wear my running shoes, so used a pair of trainers I have that are so old they are practically like slippers. I felt that I was walking on my heels, which must have put more pressure on my calf muscles, as they have been aching ever since.
It was quite good to talk with mum, as we tried to persuade Gemma, the fat Yorkie, that she really did want to run, and Jake that he really didn't want to eat horse sh*t. We walked through the woods for a while;
Me, Jake and Gemma!Before heading on to the beach. I had to be content by walking slowly along the edge of the dunes, and gently up and down them...
I shuffled down into Wells in the afternoon on my own- should probably have rested really but hey- then we took the dogs out on another little walk later.
Saturday we went out on another walk along the lanes in a vain attempt to tire Jake out for the journey home... I guess I must have walked a fair bit over the four days, although very slowly and on my heels...
The toes are still very tender, but feel quite a bit better (had a good old blister pop last night...) I may try to pull on the running shoes very soon and try a wee stroll; it is driving me nuts doing nothing!! I have the Bullock Smithy in three weeks time...
Labels: Swollen Feet, Toe Pain, Wells-Next-The-Sea
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
Off To The Sea Side...
I'm off to the caravan at Wells-Next-The-Sea today, with mum, for a bit of mother and daughter time, until Saturday...
I walked to Syston and back, yesterday, across fields- surprisingly, I don't ache too much, but although the feet weren't too bad whilst I was actually walking, they were rather sore afterwards. It's mainly the toes, or to be more precise, the big toes and the two middles toes on each foot. All a learning experience!
Feet permitting, I plan to have a little stomp around the dunes etc, and we will be walking the dogs anyway... whilst I am there, I will be taking a bit of time out to have a good think about where my training needs to go from here. We have a good 6 months training time left, so I really need to have a think about what I need to build on and work towards...
We are taking a lap top, but don't think we will be able to get online, so hope everybody has a good week!
I walked to Syston and back, yesterday, across fields- surprisingly, I don't ache too much, but although the feet weren't too bad whilst I was actually walking, they were rather sore afterwards. It's mainly the toes, or to be more precise, the big toes and the two middles toes on each foot. All a learning experience!
Feet permitting, I plan to have a little stomp around the dunes etc, and we will be walking the dogs anyway... whilst I am there, I will be taking a bit of time out to have a good think about where my training needs to go from here. We have a good 6 months training time left, so I really need to have a think about what I need to build on and work towards...
We are taking a lap top, but don't think we will be able to get online, so hope everybody has a good week!
Labels: training, Wells-Next-The-Sea
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
Back From The Sea Side!
Back from my weekend at Wells-Next-The-Sea! It was a nice break, even though the weather was rather rubbish... typical Bank Holiday weather actually, howling gales and driving rain...
Saturday wasn't too bad. It took me about 3 hours to get there rather than the usual 2 1/2 with the traffic, but it was quite warm and sunny and once my big sis and her family arrived we set off for a walk with the dogs (although with Gemma, the miniature Yorkie, it's more of a case of going for a carry).
We walked a fair way along some tracks, leading round to the Pinewoods which gives the site it's name, and then on to the beach. I did get some sprinting done on the beach, mainly racing my nephews! We threw sticks into the sea for Jake and I got this action picture of him;
Jake- The Ginger Tosser
Jake is lairy- full on most of the time and into absolutely everything! He's so friendly, affectionate but rather dim!!
Katie and her boyfriend Dan arrived, and we took the dogs back on the beach with the nephews- we ended up running quite a bit, up and down the dunes- everyone was taking quite an interest in my training!
Sunday was wet and blustery, so we walked into Wells, or rather me, mum, Bob and the dogs walked and everybody else elected to take the train! We had a walk round the town, looked into the quaint little gift shops, and had a coffee- luckily most of the pubs around Wells are dog friendly. Thought I'd better do a bit after tea, so I loaded up my rucksack to about 6 kg and headed to the beach with my nephew, Matt. We slow jogged up the beach and ran up and down a line of dunes for ages- running in sand requires a whole new technique. The sand seems quite firm until you suddenly sink up to your waist! And when we turned round and headed back- whew! We were running against a really strong headwind and god- it was tough!! I had to keep slowing to a walk several times, but we were out for about an hour so must have done some good.
Monday I really impressed myself- I woke up at 6.15am, had a quick cuppa and headed out for a run! I switched on the Garmin, plugged in the MP3 player and decided to head up the track alongside the woods and then run back through the woods themselves. The first part of the run went well, apart from a slight knee pain which went off quickly and luckily hasn't returned... I got up to a pool called 'Salts Hole', turned, and headed into the woods for the homeward stretch. It was lovely in the woods- running along little sandy trails through the trees.
In The Pinewoods
I even found a steep sandy bank to use as dune practice. I had been running a while before it dawned on me that I should be back at the holiday park by now... I kept going, but after a while I still hadn't seen any sign of civilisation, so decided to head off to the right to see whereabouts along the track I was... except instead of the track and fields beyond I found myself looking at the sea... which should have been on my left...
Yep- I'd managed to turn through 180 degrees somehow and was running back the other way! Fantastic sense of direction... not...
I ended up running 7 1/2 miles and was still back before anyone was awake! We went shopping in Norwich later, and mooched around the centre; had to detour on the way back as a fallen tree had blocked the road so just shows how windy it's been. I was woken up at 2am today by driving rain and wind against the caravan and felt sorry for all the folks who had decided to camp. We had a couple more walks Monday night and this morning, but otherwise not done much today apart from drive home and eat chocolate fingers!
Wells Beach
So... a nice break, with some useful training on sand, with winds but minus authentic heat (as it was bloody freezing!!)
Back to the grind...
Saturday wasn't too bad. It took me about 3 hours to get there rather than the usual 2 1/2 with the traffic, but it was quite warm and sunny and once my big sis and her family arrived we set off for a walk with the dogs (although with Gemma, the miniature Yorkie, it's more of a case of going for a carry).
We walked a fair way along some tracks, leading round to the Pinewoods which gives the site it's name, and then on to the beach. I did get some sprinting done on the beach, mainly racing my nephews! We threw sticks into the sea for Jake and I got this action picture of him;
Jake- The Ginger TosserJake is lairy- full on most of the time and into absolutely everything! He's so friendly, affectionate but rather dim!!
Katie and her boyfriend Dan arrived, and we took the dogs back on the beach with the nephews- we ended up running quite a bit, up and down the dunes- everyone was taking quite an interest in my training!
Sunday was wet and blustery, so we walked into Wells, or rather me, mum, Bob and the dogs walked and everybody else elected to take the train! We had a walk round the town, looked into the quaint little gift shops, and had a coffee- luckily most of the pubs around Wells are dog friendly. Thought I'd better do a bit after tea, so I loaded up my rucksack to about 6 kg and headed to the beach with my nephew, Matt. We slow jogged up the beach and ran up and down a line of dunes for ages- running in sand requires a whole new technique. The sand seems quite firm until you suddenly sink up to your waist! And when we turned round and headed back- whew! We were running against a really strong headwind and god- it was tough!! I had to keep slowing to a walk several times, but we were out for about an hour so must have done some good.
Monday I really impressed myself- I woke up at 6.15am, had a quick cuppa and headed out for a run! I switched on the Garmin, plugged in the MP3 player and decided to head up the track alongside the woods and then run back through the woods themselves. The first part of the run went well, apart from a slight knee pain which went off quickly and luckily hasn't returned... I got up to a pool called 'Salts Hole', turned, and headed into the woods for the homeward stretch. It was lovely in the woods- running along little sandy trails through the trees.
In The PinewoodsI even found a steep sandy bank to use as dune practice. I had been running a while before it dawned on me that I should be back at the holiday park by now... I kept going, but after a while I still hadn't seen any sign of civilisation, so decided to head off to the right to see whereabouts along the track I was... except instead of the track and fields beyond I found myself looking at the sea... which should have been on my left...
Yep- I'd managed to turn through 180 degrees somehow and was running back the other way! Fantastic sense of direction... not...
I ended up running 7 1/2 miles and was still back before anyone was awake! We went shopping in Norwich later, and mooched around the centre; had to detour on the way back as a fallen tree had blocked the road so just shows how windy it's been. I was woken up at 2am today by driving rain and wind against the caravan and felt sorry for all the folks who had decided to camp. We had a couple more walks Monday night and this morning, but otherwise not done much today apart from drive home and eat chocolate fingers!
Wells BeachSo... a nice break, with some useful training on sand, with winds but minus authentic heat (as it was bloody freezing!!)
Back to the grind...
Labels: sand, Wells-Next-The-Sea
Friday, May 23, 2008
A Quiet Week...
I really haven't done much this week! Due to a combination of feeling knackered and having a headache that lasted for two days...
So what's been happening since Sunday... not a lot... Monday I used the stepper whilst catching up on telly, watched a documentary on Alfred Wainwright, he of the Fell Walking guides to the Lakes... bit sad maybe, but did make me want to dash off to the Lakes! I love the Lakes- really must try to spend more time up these...
Tuesday I went for a cross country walk with a lightish pack. I decided to try a route I'd not done before, and all was going fine until I reached a bridge and saw the field where my path was leading.
Cows.
Young stocky bullocks with horns- all gathering round the gate, staring at me! I skirted around, hoping that the path actually went a different way, but knew deep down it went straight through the field, so I steeled myself, took a deep breath and waded in...
They were fine! Very curious and did follow me a bit, it was quite funny. I'd walk a few paces and sense them following me, so I'd turn round and they'd instantly freeze, like some kind of statue. They soon got fed up and just watched me go- I don't mind that, it's just when they run, jostle and mock charge!
My Garmin told me I'd done about 8 1/2 miles in all. Did nothing Wednesday cos it was my mate's birthday so a few of us went out for tea, and yesterday was the second day of the mystery headaches!
I had intended to run, but wasn't feeling great, so went and walked Jake, mum's crazy dog (I had to have words with him as he pulled me over- luckily out of sight of the kids nearby). I plugged into my music and walked around the next village after I returned him, probably another 6 miles in all. I am going to the gym in a bit as soon as I feel motivated!!
Hopefully will be definately back to normal this week, guess the rest may have done some good! I won't be here for the next few days as am going to mum's caravan in Wells-next-the-Sea but will update on the sand/ dune running!!
So what's been happening since Sunday... not a lot... Monday I used the stepper whilst catching up on telly, watched a documentary on Alfred Wainwright, he of the Fell Walking guides to the Lakes... bit sad maybe, but did make me want to dash off to the Lakes! I love the Lakes- really must try to spend more time up these...
Tuesday I went for a cross country walk with a lightish pack. I decided to try a route I'd not done before, and all was going fine until I reached a bridge and saw the field where my path was leading.
Cows.
Young stocky bullocks with horns- all gathering round the gate, staring at me! I skirted around, hoping that the path actually went a different way, but knew deep down it went straight through the field, so I steeled myself, took a deep breath and waded in...
They were fine! Very curious and did follow me a bit, it was quite funny. I'd walk a few paces and sense them following me, so I'd turn round and they'd instantly freeze, like some kind of statue. They soon got fed up and just watched me go- I don't mind that, it's just when they run, jostle and mock charge!
My Garmin told me I'd done about 8 1/2 miles in all. Did nothing Wednesday cos it was my mate's birthday so a few of us went out for tea, and yesterday was the second day of the mystery headaches!
I had intended to run, but wasn't feeling great, so went and walked Jake, mum's crazy dog (I had to have words with him as he pulled me over- luckily out of sight of the kids nearby). I plugged into my music and walked around the next village after I returned him, probably another 6 miles in all. I am going to the gym in a bit as soon as I feel motivated!!
Hopefully will be definately back to normal this week, guess the rest may have done some good! I won't be here for the next few days as am going to mum's caravan in Wells-next-the-Sea but will update on the sand/ dune running!!
Labels: Cows, Wainwright, walking, Wells-Next-The-Sea
Sunday, May 18, 2008
Getting Back To Normal...
I think I underestimated the recovery time from the Ridgeway 40, and how much a 40 miler takes out of the body. Hence the leg pain Wednesday after using the stepper!!
I decided to be really sensible, take the advice given and have an easier week... Thursday the leg was much better, so had a nice gentle stroll in the countryside on my 7 mile route. I could feel a couple of twinges towards the end, and thought I may have overdone it, but it was ok...
Friday I rested and had takeaway pizza! Everything felt fine Saturday so had a really slow and easy 10 mile run, no pack, amazing what a difference it makes listening to music! The best thing was passing groups of kids... I am no longer bothered if they yell abuse, as I can't hear them!
I went back to the gym today for the first time in ages, so thought I'd ease back in- I ran for 10 minutes on the treadmill, walked using the incline function for 10 minutes and ran again for another 10. Then did 20 minutes on the ellipticals (I have discovered that one of the older models doesn't seem to bother my knee), 10 minutes on the stepper at a low level, plus the usual weights/ strength training. My legs have felt a little 'heavy' but otherwise ok.
I am away next weekend- the family are going to Wells-Next-The-Sea! My sis and her family are staying in the van next door to mums, and I will be using the opportunity to run along the beach and over the dunes (although they are rather miniscule and hardly up to Saharan standards!!) if nothing else it will give me the opportunity to look like an absolute t*at in front if everybody, but I'm quite used to that!!
I decided to be really sensible, take the advice given and have an easier week... Thursday the leg was much better, so had a nice gentle stroll in the countryside on my 7 mile route. I could feel a couple of twinges towards the end, and thought I may have overdone it, but it was ok...
Friday I rested and had takeaway pizza! Everything felt fine Saturday so had a really slow and easy 10 mile run, no pack, amazing what a difference it makes listening to music! The best thing was passing groups of kids... I am no longer bothered if they yell abuse, as I can't hear them!
I went back to the gym today for the first time in ages, so thought I'd ease back in- I ran for 10 minutes on the treadmill, walked using the incline function for 10 minutes and ran again for another 10. Then did 20 minutes on the ellipticals (I have discovered that one of the older models doesn't seem to bother my knee), 10 minutes on the stepper at a low level, plus the usual weights/ strength training. My legs have felt a little 'heavy' but otherwise ok.
I am away next weekend- the family are going to Wells-Next-The-Sea! My sis and her family are staying in the van next door to mums, and I will be using the opportunity to run along the beach and over the dunes (although they are rather miniscule and hardly up to Saharan standards!!) if nothing else it will give me the opportunity to look like an absolute t*at in front if everybody, but I'm quite used to that!!
Labels: gym, Wells-Next-The-Sea
Saturday, April 14, 2007
Not Quite The Sahara...
Got back last night after a couple of days in Wells-Next-The-Sea (why isn’t it called Wells-Next-TO-The Sea?? Bad English if you ask me…)
It was a nice relaxing break, I didn’t dare do too much though cos of my Achilles… although it seems to be getting better (touch wood!) I can feel it slightly when I’m walking but it can no longer feel it all the time.
We did do a walk Thursday, along a track alongside the pine woods, down to the Victoria pub at Holkham for a cuppa, back up the track to the small stagnant pond called Salts Hole (famous for being left over from when the land was reclaimed from the sea) before walking back along the beach and the pine woods.
It was a very gentle paced walk, mainly due to my stepfather’s bird watching tendencies (the feathered kind… there seems to come a point in people’s lives, as they age, when they start to develop slight bird watching tendencies. As this progresses, they might start to buy books on bird watching, visit related internet sites, buy the magazines etc until, before you know it, suddenly they are fully fledged ‘twitchers’ - yes, it could happen to your parents!!)
Not quite the Sahara...
Mum with Alex at Salts Hole
I went out for a short walk Thursday night along the path to Wells and back up to the beach. I found a useful steep sandy slope next to the steps leading down to the beach, so walked up and down this as fast as I could for about 15 minutes (definitely something to do in the evening when there’s nobody else around!)
Evening shot of the Albatross, Wells
I think I will try a slow, gentle jog tonight, maybe 2 miles, and see how I go… if I feel pain, I will stop. The gym sounds a good idea for tomorrow morning, not too much running but will get some cross training done hopefully.
It was a nice relaxing break, I didn’t dare do too much though cos of my Achilles… although it seems to be getting better (touch wood!) I can feel it slightly when I’m walking but it can no longer feel it all the time.
We did do a walk Thursday, along a track alongside the pine woods, down to the Victoria pub at Holkham for a cuppa, back up the track to the small stagnant pond called Salts Hole (famous for being left over from when the land was reclaimed from the sea) before walking back along the beach and the pine woods.
It was a very gentle paced walk, mainly due to my stepfather’s bird watching tendencies (the feathered kind… there seems to come a point in people’s lives, as they age, when they start to develop slight bird watching tendencies. As this progresses, they might start to buy books on bird watching, visit related internet sites, buy the magazines etc until, before you know it, suddenly they are fully fledged ‘twitchers’ - yes, it could happen to your parents!!)
My mum also has 'twitching' tendencies, but hasn't quite got the hang of it... my sis tells me that mum was convinced she'd spotted a completely new species of robin until it was pointed out that she was watching a mars bar wrapper.
The sands round here are blessed with sand dunes, and, although I didn’t dare run, I did walk up and along the lines of dunes to try to get a feel of walking uphill through sand. I couldn’t replicate the heat, of course, but it’s better than nothing. Obviously we are not going to be tripping over sunbathers, kids or loose dogs in the Sahara dunes…
Not quite the Sahara...
Mum with Alex at Salts HoleI went out for a short walk Thursday night along the path to Wells and back up to the beach. I found a useful steep sandy slope next to the steps leading down to the beach, so walked up and down this as fast as I could for about 15 minutes (definitely something to do in the evening when there’s nobody else around!)
Evening shot of the Albatross, WellsI think I will try a slow, gentle jog tonight, maybe 2 miles, and see how I go… if I feel pain, I will stop. The gym sounds a good idea for tomorrow morning, not too much running but will get some cross training done hopefully.
Labels: Marathon des Sables, sand, Wells-Next-The-Sea
Wednesday, April 11, 2007
Off To The Seaside...
I am off to Wells-Next-The-Sea in a bit to stay with the folks in the caravan.
My bloody achilles has been very sore, but I have put my running shoes on to give more support and it's made a big difference already. Good excuse to wear trainers to work.
My GP gave me antibiotics today for my chesty cough that just keeps coming back, so if I can just get my heel right...
I may get the chance to run (or jog... or even walk) up a few dunes!
My bloody achilles has been very sore, but I have put my running shoes on to give more support and it's made a big difference already. Good excuse to wear trainers to work.
My GP gave me antibiotics today for my chesty cough that just keeps coming back, so if I can just get my heel right...
I may get the chance to run (or jog... or even walk) up a few dunes!
Labels: achilles pain, Wells-Next-The-Sea
