Ponton Plod 2011 - DNF

"GUIDE DOG" LEADS US OUT

It would be easy to dwell on the negatives of pulling out of the Ponton Plod and although I am disappointed it happened at a relatively good time in the running year. The previous Wednesday I had been out on a usual 5 mile lunch time run when a mile or so in I plugged my foot in a pothole and twisted my ankle. I've an increasing history of left ankle sprains, each time the ligaments seem to get weaker and weaker. I managed to carry on running, although my foot was sore it was only a minor twist and I went back to work with only a little swelling. I resolved to rest until race day the following Sunday. By Sunday the swelling was gone and I travelled to Great Ponton, near Grantham optimistic about my chances to run well. I had run round the 27 mile route  a few weeks previously (see report below) so I knew the route well. The sun was negotiating the cloud, it was cool and ideal for running. After registration I returned to the car and taped up my ankles using more tape than usual on the left side. There's a debate about the advantages and disadvantages of ankle taping. There's an argument that taping gives extra support but alternatively some consider taping counter productive because it interferes with the ligaments natural ability to strengthen itself. I am a fan. I use 5cm zinc oxide tape which doesn't affect my running movement but gives me psychological confidence to run across uneven ground. With the exception of today I haven't turned my ankle whilst using tape. 

Running well to Buckminster

The Ponton Plod has 12, 17 and 27 mile options. I ran out through Stoke Rochford and watched three runners in front peel off along the 17 mile route. I had considered that I was now at the front of 27mile field but on reaching the first checkpoint at Buckminster Water Tower I was surprised to learn there was a runner ahead who had blitzed through about twenty minutes earlier! I was later to find out that he is a 2:35 marathon runner and he was certainly showing his form. I plodded on towards Saltby the sun had come out, it was a lovely cool bright day and I was running strong and happy. The route between Saltby and Croxton Kerrial crosses uneven ground. The trail is full of hard mud clumps hidden under long grass. I was conscious that my ankle was weak due to the previous Wednesday's minor incident and I was being careful with my foot plant. I almost made it to Croxton Kerrial. There is no warning when it happens and it doesn't matter how hard you are concentrating, all of a sudden the foot turns inward it feels as if the joint momentarily dislocates followed by a grim popping sound that makes me wince thinking about it. I tried to carry on, sometimes I can but today the sprain was obviously worse as it hadn't healed properly from the previous Wednesday. I limped into the checkpoint at Croxton Kerrial and retired.

Fuel

I was more disappointed because it was such a good day for off road running, perhaps one of the last sunny days before the horrors of winter. Thankfully my partner came to pick me up, in the meantime I enjoyed a cup of tea and a slice of cake. I returned to Great Ponton and to pick up my bag and reluctantly took advantage of some delicious parsnip and apple soup and apple pie and cream. It was good but it doesn't taste the same when you haven't earned it. Many of the 12 and 17 mile entrants had returned and were basking in the sunshine and their glory. The Ponton Plod is a great event, organised by Stuart Ashley and friends from Notfast Runners. Stuart is a long time long distance walker his achievements include completions of two LDWA '100's" and even a Bullock Smithy! The Plod is to be recommended, well organised, a decent mainly runnable route and great food at the finish. Just mind out for the ankle twisters!        

Bullock Smithy 2011

Steve Holt and friends get ready to strike the anvil.

Some 250 people made their way to Devonshire Park in Hazel Grove to take part in the annual 56 mile hike through the Peak District. The anvil was struck at midday on Saturday releasing entrants out towards the Peak District National Park. The weather was humid with a covering of cloud and the threat of a storm that never materialised.

Despite the warm humid conditions the course record of 8:55 set earlier by Andy Trigg fell to a classy performance from Stockport Harrier, James Scott-Buccleuch who blitzed the course in 8 hours and 46 minutes. Stockport Harriers dominated the event taking the Windgather team trophy with a combined time of 28 hours and 29 minutes much to the upset of Macclesfield Harriers who have held the team trophy for some 15 years previously. Philomena Smith of Goyt Valley Striders was first lady home in 12 hours 23 minutes sporting a fluorescent head band to light her way. For all the heroic stories of the runners up front spare a thought for 15 year old Orla Hague who accompanied by her Dad, Andy used the full 24 hours to complete the event, a fine achievement. The Bullock Smithy 2011 was another great success overshadowed to a degree with the news that a friend had fallen at Miller's Dale breaking her jaw in four places and requiring surgery. All the best for a speedy recovery.

Approaching Brand Top with Julian Brown

Steve Temple climbs Bow Stones later finishing in 10 hours 10 minutes

I felt good through the first few stages. The initial climb to Bow Stones passed quickly and I paused only briefly at the first check point to take some liquid. As I descended towards the Moorside Hotel I could see the front runners who had already established a lead as they crossed out in the distance towards Whaley Moor. I felt strong climbing Chinley Churn and managed a trot across to Big Stone to the check point at 10 miles. The route then descends to peep-o-day before the biggest climb of the day to Edale Cross at 1800 feet. Things were going well and I pushed on taking a few risks down the steep stepped Jacob's Ladder. I ran too fast into Edale and started to pay the price. Despite two cartons of rice pudding and fruit and copious amounts of juice I began to struggle on the steep climb to Hollins Cross. By Castleton I became a bit dejected, the wheels seemed to be coming off and I was only 20 miles in with

1st place - James Scott-Buccleuch 8:46 wow...

36 to go. I left Castleton for my preferred route up Cave Dale, some prefer a steep climb up Goosehill followed by a more even runnable plateau. At Cave Dale I was caught by Nigel Aston who seemed to be running strong. We watched a dog that had chased a sheep up the steep valley side and was involved in a protracted stand off. The sheep occasionally butted the dog as the dog stalked and yelped. Eventually the owners began to climb the steep valley side to catch the dog. A child cried with worry in case the dog became so occupied that it wouldn't come back. We didn't see the conclusion we had a Bullock Smithy to continue!

I was still struggling and  trying to work what was making me feel so ropey so early in the event, the legs were fine but energy levels seemed lacking. Nigel ran ahead and when I finally approached the summit of Cave Dale I saw Julian Brown in the distance. Julian had taken the Goosehill route and despite leaving Castleton shortly behind me, he arrived at the summit of the valley quicker. The sight of two compatriots making distance on me added to my woes and I contemplated if things might get so bad that I might have to retire, such thoughts are usual 30 miles in but not after only 20 or so miles. I decided to take a bit more time at Peak Forest checkpoint taking on plenty of food and the first High Five energy powder of the day. I shuffled out of checkpoint 7 at 24 miles and up the road eating a banana.

Crossing the stile at the top I glanced behind to see another entrant gaining on me. By now the food and powder were taking affect and I decided it was make or break time. I didn't want to be passed again. I would have to kick into a steady pace and maintain it to Miller's Dale or my event would be shot. I began to jog steadily until I was able to run and gradually picked up the pace. I know through experience that a common feature of ultra running is that you can feel dejected, demoralised and knackered one minute and quite elated and full of bounce the next. I pushed on with renewed vigour gaining on and eventually passing Nigel Aston just before Miller's Dale. 100 paces walking then 100 paces running was the recipe for the stiff climb to the A6, I squatted at the top to relive the strain in my muscles and then pushed on knowing that there were flater runnable sections to Chelmorton and on to Earl Sterndale, things were looking up. A doughnut at Chelmorton checkpoint helped me to catch up with Julian Brown of Macclesfield Harriers. Julian had cycled 800 miles (yes 800 miles) the previous week in an event called Paris-Brest-Paris completing the event in 78 hours, an achievement so big that I struggle to understand the perspective of it, incredible.

Just after Cumberland Cottage (43 miles)

I ran with Julian from Earl Sterndale at 35 miles back to the finish and was grateful for the company. I felt good leaving Earl Sterndale and my early race woes were but a distant memory. We kept a good pace to Brand Top following the sound of the barking dogs in the distance. Julian took the road out of Brand Top but I preferred the fields, for the second time Julian's route choice prevailed and I had to put some work in on the way to Three Shires Head in order to catch him up. Further motivation was provided by knowing that we would arrive at Cumberland Cottage before night fall making the descent through Cumberland Cut more manageable.

Nigel Aston with support crew

It was good to see my partner taking a video of us shortly after leaving Cumberland Cottage at 43 miles before the monotonous slog towards Walker Barn. I was too tiredto face Charity Lane and opted for the slightly longer but less hilly road route to Walker Barn. On reaching Walker Barn at 47 miles and only 9 miles left to run I worked out that a sub 10 hour time wasn't really possible. I was far from bothered, it took any pressure off the last few stages. The last thing I wanted to be doing was bombing down the Middlewood Way touch and go for sub 10, I was simply too tired for the effort today. As we arrived at Walker Barn, Steve Temple was just leaving. I hadn't seen Steve since Edale some 29 miles earlier (and I didn't see him again until the finish!) I donned my leggins which usually gives me a couple of miles respite from leg strain and we shuffled on to Whiteley Green stealing through the lanes and passageways of Bollington using local knowledge. By Whiteley Green at 51 miles I was pretty tired and encouraged Julian to run on, despite his 800 mile cycling epic he was running stronger than I and I watched his headlamp disappear down the disused railway track.

Finish 10:19, high five Trev!

The last 5 miles of the Bullock Smithy involves some 2-3 miles of disused railway in the dark it all looks the same, it's straight and it goes on forever. The only way to deal with it is to keep your head down, switch off and keep momentum, one foot in front of the other, repeat. Gladly I seemed to arrive in Higher Poynton a bit quicker than previous years and on climbing the steps to the road I met Julian again. We ran on steadily through Higher Poynton and down the pot holed Towers Lane to the A6 and the final half mile to the finish. As usual I was very glad to finish, this year in a time of 10 hours 19 minutes, joint eighth position. We retired for the legendary "fry-up" preceded by congratulating the Stockport Harriers who were celebrating their fine achievements with Stella and Champagne!

Geoff Pettengell runs home topless

Many thanks to the organisers and volunteers especially the check point staff and congratulations to all who completed the event especially those who walked through the night and took the best part of the allowed 24 hours to complete the event. Next year's Bullock Smithy will no doubt take place on the first full weekend in September. Me? never again....well perhaps one more....

Bullock Smithy 2011 (Preview)

The first weekend in September marks the highlight of my running year, the culmination of a spring and summer's training and racing. This is the weekend of the Bullock Smithy Hike, a 56 mile loop through the Peak District starting and finishing in Hazel Grove, Stockport and passing through, Lyme Park, Bow Stones, Chinley Churn, Edale Cross, Edale, Castleton, Peak Forest, Miller's Dale, Chelmorton (nr), Earl Sterndale, Brand Top, Cumerbland Cottage, Walker Barn, Whiteley Green, before the monotonous slog down the Middlewood way to Higher Poynton and on to Hazel Grove. The Bullock Smithy involves some 7500ft of ascent and passes through some beautiful parts of the dark and white peak district.

This year will be my twentieth entry and If I finish will be my 16th completion. I remember my first Bullock Smithy at age 15. I had grown up in Hazel Grove watching my youngest sister and her friends who were members of 3rd Hazel Grove Venture and Ranger Unit try, and in many cases fail to complete the course. At that age I couldn't understand the difficulty. "We have been walking since we were three years old haven't we? Isn't it just a case of putting one foot in front of the other for a bit longer than usual?" I used to ask. My sister replied "just wait till your old enough and you'll see how hard it is". Then came my rude awakening.

I managed to get a parental consent form signed off in 1991 and set foot out of Devonshire Park for the first time. 28 miles later I came to a staggering halt followed by the DNF bus back to Hazel Grove. Somewhat embarrassed by my failure I went back the next year and came to a similarly despondent end dropping again at half way, Miller's Dale, 28 miles. Looking back I must have been a bit plucky (or daft) because I entered again the following two years each time dropping at Earl Sterndale, 36 miles. I'm not ashamed to remember that I cried after my fourth DNF. The Bullock Smithy seemed entirely insurmountable and I questioned if I'd ever get round the course. Looking back I didn't know the Peak Park like I do now and the appropriately named, Axe Edge when you are approaching 20 years old with little experience of the outdoors was a bit daunting. Although I admit each DNF I was physically and mentally knackered, I don't think its a coincidence that I tended to retire before or around midnight. Getting lost in the Peak District in the dark in the early hours didn't appeal to me at that age.

2004 - Steve Tiffany clips my rear view tally card at Whiteley Green!

And so my first success on the fifth attempt at what must have been 20 years of age. I remember my usual haunts, Miller's Dale and Earl Sterndale seeming usually attractive as convenient DNF spots especially as I had recently discovered the delights of the Quiet Woman at Earl Sterndale. This year however I had shuffled the previous leg with a couple of typical rugged fell runner types from Sheffield. I can only remember that one was called Bill and both seemed hard as nails. Those two saved the day and are in part responsible for my love affair with the Bullock Smithy ever since. They whipped, kicked and tricked me out of my DNF chair and onwards up the road to Axe edge via the 'old route' from there they enticed me across to the Cat and Fiddle and then 'carried' me across a boggy shining Tor to Pym's Chair and on to the Moorside Hotel at Disley. They pushed me out of the penultimate checkpoint and were only then satisfied that I would not DNF. They left me at that point, I'd held them back far too long. They had sacrificed their event to make sure I got round and In an odd kind of way I will be eternally grateful. The tears flowed again as I ran alone down the A6 from Disley to Hazel Grove part through pain and more through happiness and in September 1996 I completed my first BSH in 17 hours arriving back to the scout hut at 5am, the feeling of self satisfaction was incredible. I should have left it there...

 Sadly my first success began a mild obsession with the event and distance running in general. I questioned whether I might be able to run the entire route and the I did the following year. In subsequent years I got more confident and faster and in 1998 I broke the 12 hour barrier. I've been back each year since and last year ran a PB in 10 hours 2 minutes. I remember saying to my partner afterwards "that's it now, I can't go any faster than that I'm not doing it anymore". And so off to Hazel Grove I go again after having entered online....that happens each year, "never again", then you enter.   

The Bullock Smithys' a great event. There are lots of brilliant LDWA events that welcome runners but I have heard it said on many occasions that the BSH has something special. For me its a personal challenge to run the best I can. I won't forgot that crumpled, sorry state I was in at Earl Sterndale as my fourth DNF bus came to pick me up in 1994. Similarly I won't forget the tears of elation when I completed at the fifth attempt in 1995.  Good luck to everyone participating this year and thanks in advance to all the organisers especially the volunteers at the check points. Report to follow.              

Burton 10K 2011

The finish before the start

This was one of oddest races, perhaps funniest races that I have ever entered. I should confess, I spent £17 entering the Long Tour of Bradwell but I would have needed to get out of bed at 5am on Saturday morning to get to the start in the Peak District by 9am. Despite going to bed before ten on the Friday night I was still wide awake at 1.30am and so I turned off my alarm and resolved, with some reluctance not to do it. Perhaps predictably I fell straight to sleep as soon as my alarm was deactivated.  In order to cope with the guilt of a "did not start" the first thing I did when waking (at 10am!) Saturday morning was look for an 'entry on day' race closer to home. Thankfully I found the Burton 10k. The RAC route planner suggested it would take 1hr 15mins to get there and so the plan was hatched. 

I arrived shortly after 9am and registered for a 10am start. By 9.55am there was no sign of an impending race as competitors were still milling about the race stalls. It transpired the advertised time of 10am was in fact 10.30am so I had to rejig my pre race preparations and instead went for my own recee of the traders stands. The next unusual occurrence happened at the first stand. I picked up a race leaflet for the Burton 10k, advertised to start at 10am the week after (14th August). If the Burton 10k was next week, what race had I entered!? Thankfully the bloke manning the stall told me that the 'original' 10k has always been, and continues to be on the weekend closest to the 14th August but this year some other folk had turned up and decided to organise their own Burton 10k the week before. Confused? I was. I asked if there was any animosity between the rival 10k organisers to which he replied "nah not really, they've given us a free stand to promote our event and we've got a record entry next week so we're all happy"...

Timber!



Impotent arch

I finally shuffled up to the start at 10.25am. We were asked to move a few paces forward and then appeared two unknown Olympic hopefuls. The first was a female 1500m runner, the second a rookie javelin thrower who couldn't talk without moving his arms. His arm movements alternated between looking as if he was giving a verse of Shakespeare and looking like he was practising throwing the javelin. The local Councillor for the area introduced the duo and asked them to do a warm up, what followed was daft.

Off at last

There were hundreds of runners lined up waiting to run and two embarrassed Z list celebrities facing us trying to encourage us to jog on the spot stretch are arms in the air etc. The thought should be commended but it just didn't work, it was so awkward they desperately needed rescuing and perhaps someone else thought the same because all of a sudden the inflatable start arch collapsed, maybe someone had pulled the plug? By this time it was all a bit comical, it was a long time after 10.30am even longer after 10am and I wandered if this race was going to start at all! Some five minutes later the arch became erect again to a round of applause from the humoured runners. Shortly after we were off, phew!



Almost there...

The route wasn't great, loads of twist and turns, the first half mile along a narrow bridge over the River Trent, there were no mile or 'K' markers and a bit worryingly for the back markers, no water stations. The surface alternated between tarmac, mud track and field. The directional markers weren't the best but i didn't get lost. Having said all that I understand that this was the organisers first attempt at staging the 10K and I'm sure they will consider positive criticism, I know it isn't easy organising an event. I saw the organiser asking people at the end for feedback so he obviously cares about the race. I wouldn't say it was a bad event either I get frustrated when people talk about good and bad events, As long as you turn up, run and  finish its a good event isn't it? I had a good race, there was a strong wind that tested the resilience on the way out but 'carried' me home. The route involved a little undulation but nothing to worry about. I finished 28th in 40:29. The race pack included a bottle of water, some lucozade jelly beans and a T-shirt, there were also bananas at the finish and free massages.  The Burton 10k was a fun day out and don't forget it's the Burton 10K next week!         

   
   

Ponton Plod 2011 (Training Run - not the event)

My running friends from Grantham AC took part in the epic Thunder Run this weekend. Good luck folks I hope you all ran well.

I was aware that my own endurance event is fast approaching in the form of the Bullock Smithy. Although I've run a fair amount this year I haven't done that many long races so I decided to spend Saturday shuffling round 27 miles of the Ponton Plod.  

A couple of cows look after Limerick's field.

It was to be an easy paced run testing out a bit of new kit including a small day sac from Decathlon which has a handy chest pocket just big enough to hold my camera and some new Nike Air Pegasus Shoes.The Ponton Plod is an LDWA event that welcomes runners. In addition to the 27 mile route there are 17 

Orderly Sheep

& 11.5 mile options. The event is run in September, I ran the 27 mile route last year and will probably run again this year if I'm not on holiday. I left Great Ponton village Hall at about 11.30am. It was bright with a cover of cloud, the sun broke through occasionally and I knew if the cloud cleared it would be hot and humid later on.

Stoke Rochford

Hydration is always a challenge in such conditions. I don't like to carry lots of water because of the weight. I had already ripped out the bladder of my knew day sac to create more room. Instead I carried a bit of change and knew that at about half way I'd pass the pub in Saltby where I would take on a few pints of juice which I hoped would see me through the second half. My partner had also agreed to drive out and meet me to pass a bit of food on and so I took my phone so we could arrange a suitable meeting point. The route leaves Great Ponton and runs through, Stoke Rochford - Skillington - Buckminster - Spoxton - Saltby - Croxton Kerrial - Harston - Denton - Denton Reservoir - Harlaxton - Wyville - and back to Great Ponton. It's a well thought out route and to be recommended as an event in September.

Buckminster Water Tower

I ran steadily to Sproxton and on up the track to the water tower. No checkpoint or food to take advantage of today, instead on towards Buckminster passing a busy hen with chicks on the way. By the time I reached the fringes of Sproxton I was looking forward to refreshment at the pub in

Saltby, sadly when I arrived it was closed and I was a bit concerned as I was thirsty. I ran across rutted fields through wood and up an uneven motorcycle track being careful to remember the right turn footpath hidden in the bushes. Soon I arrived at Croxton Kerrial and was happy that the Peacock Pub was open. Slightly embarrassed to walk through the diners in a sweaty bedraggled state I ordered two pints of blackcurrant and stood outside to down them with a bit of wedding cake that I'd taken with me. I filled up my water bottle from the outside tap and shuffled on towards Harston. By now the

A typical path in these parts

sun had come out there were great views across the vale of Belvior and i was running strong rehydrated and fueled and looking forward to the rest of the run. I decided not to phone my partner until I was near the finish.

Denton Reservoir

I ran fast up the track to Denton and on to the Reservoir. There were a few people knocking about making the most of a nice day it was some of the only other people I had seen all day. I ran on to Harlaxton and instead of passing through the village I skirted the boundary and ran on up the hill towards Gorse Lane.I paused briefly to take a shot looking back over Grantham. At Gorse Lane I phoned Tracy as i knew I'd be back in Great Ponton within the hour I was tempted to ask her to meet my at Wyville as the sun was by now intense and I was thirsty. Instead I hoped for an outdoor tap by the village hall, there wasn't one and despite the church being open there was no water in there either. There was a couple of bottles of water on the floor, maybe used to water flowers and although I was tempted I decided to run on. Just after leaving Wyville I met a chap with an angry dog. It looked more 

At the end of another fine run.

an angry lion and he was just about holding on to it. I was glad it was on a lead and I picked up the pace. I ran the last four or so miles fairly fast mostly because I had had enough and was thirsty. I crossed the bridge over the A1 and was met at the Village Hall with a bottle of water, phew! I drenched myself and drank the rest followed by a bag of cherries. The run had taken five hours, I'd hope to do it perhaps an hour faster on race day. The day sac was good, Ill probably use it on the Bullock Smithy. I wasn't overly sold on the shoes and I'll have to give more though to footwear ahead of the BSH.  

Wedding Day Run

Photo courtesy of Jeremy Hinks www.variousstuff.co.uk

Just for the record this entry is about my wedding day run. I had always had visions of a 'break of dawn' run across the hills before my wedding but I needed to be first in the barber's queue so the run had to wait until after my post dawn haircut and  my planned route wasn't going to be very hilly!

The night before, I stayed in the Angel and Royal Hotel in Grantham. I didn't get much sleep due to my 'best man' trying to get into my room for 'just one more' drink and a further attempt to lure me back to the bar via the internal room phone some thirty minutes later. I finally went to sleep at about 1.30am. I awoke nervous and apprehensive just before 6am. After a haircut at 7am I was ready to run just before 7.30am. My friends had asked if I was going to do a 'Forest Gump', it was never really on the cards.  

Belton Folly seen on a different day

I left the Angel and Royal in heavy rain and ran through Manthorpe to Belton Village after which I ran along the road up the hills towards Barkston Airfield. By the time I turned East to run across Barkston Heath the rain was driving across the exposed fields of crop. I kept a good pace to keep warm as I was only wearing a vest and shorts and was grateful to reach the shelter of the woods. I soon reappeared by the Belton House folly and took a moments rest to appreciator the view. I was particularly interested to look at the weather movement through the sky. We had booked our wedding in July in the hope of sunshine. Looking across towards the Vale of Belvoir the rain seemed set in for the day, there was a grey cloud as far as the eye could see. I decided to try to not let it spoil the forthcoming wedding. I descended to Five Gates Lane and ran hard towards Londonthorpe Road, on towards Alma Park and through the Sunningdale Estate before hitting Belton Lane back towards the town centre. I was tempted to extend my run. I was running free, relaxed and refreshed by the driving rain. I was aware that the end of my run signalled the start of stress and plenty of it! I knew however that it was time to face the music. Despite my apprehension I was looking forward to the day and so ran back to the hotel.  I was met by my best man who asked "are you off your head?" I quietly remembered that I had been asking him the same question a few hours earlier. With not a moments dignity I took my rain soaked body into the breakfast room to meet some of our guests who by now were eating breakfast. Five hours later I was walking into a church in Rutland in bright sunshine for the start of a fantastic wedding day. My wedding morning run had helped me to relax, focus and refresh me and I was glad I had made the effort to get out of bed. Thanks for coming folks...   

 

Notfast 10K - Newark on Trent

The day before the Notfast race I had been run off the road in my car. Traveling through the quaint village of Sproxton on the way back from Oakham another car pulled out in front. The evasive action involved full brake lock and a sharp left turn of the steering wheel. The car slid towards an earth bund and jumped Dukes of Hazard style onto the village green, missing some wooden stakes in the process.Slightly shaken we had escaped unscathed although I was holding the gear stick which was no longer attached to the gear box. The other car had "done one". And so we abandoned the car and set off walking back to Grantham, the start of the weekend's exercise. Some two and a half hours later we arrived at the Gregory in Harlaxton and phoned a taxi.

I awoke at 8am the next morning and wrestled with conscience. I'm not a morning person and will look for any excuse to stay in bed. This morning I had plenty of excuses, I'd have to cycle to Newark and back and race in between, could I be bothered? A car crash the day before, maybe I'd better help my partner retrieve the car, maybe I'd suffer after shock? It was a late night after walking back to Grantham, maybe I needed more rest? I resolved to draw the curtains back and if the sky was grey I'd go back to my slumber for a few more hours shut eye. There wasn't a cloud in the sky.

The cycle to Newark was straightforward through the back lanes via, Barkston, Marston, Hougham, Dry Doddington, Claypole and Balderton before arriving at Newark Rugby Club for the start of the Notfast race. I saw a buzzard soaring high above Marston Moor and was sorry that I didn't have time to stop and watch it. I was thankful to the villager that helped with directions through Marston and I arrived in Newark about an hour after I had set off. The 10k is organised by the Notfast running Club, a club that is open only to 'veterans' aged over 35 which happily means I wouldn't qualify just yet! There are subtle challenges on the Notfast race that make it a little more challenging than a standard 10k. The start and finish is on a grass field which makes it difficult to get into a rhythm at the start and challenges tired legs at the finish. Somewhere after half way there's a gradual incline which tests the resolve and threatens to slow your pace. Despite the challenges its a fairly fast course. It was another humid race and I was glad to finish in 39:43, I worked harder today than I thought I might have to.

The Notfast race is another good value event. The race fee is seven pounds to enter or nine pounds on the day and includes a decent t-shirt. The race is well organised and it's always nice to have access to post race showers. There was no point today, I had to cycle home. At the end of the race my partner texted me a photo of a snake she's found on the road on the way to retrieve the car. Thankfully the gear stick had only popped out of its clutch. I must have been holding too tightly as I braced for impact. The breakdown service were able to pop it back in. All's well that end's well, no cost, phew!      

NB) Ive added a post below about an ascent of Mount Misen in Japan, didn't have time to do it at the time...

Peakers' Stroll 2011 - 25 Miles - Peak District



Peak Forest nestles in the midday sun

"Mad dogs and English men go out in the midday sun". And so we did. Accompanied by some mad Englishwomen. We headed out of Peak Forest on the High Peak in bright sunshine with a refreshing breeze which provided brief but welcome relief from the humidty.

This is an event I look forward to. I suspect I have run it five or so times. The event provides good training for longer challenges and involves a fair amount of climb which is important to a runner now living in a flat area. 

After leaving Peak Forest the run heads towards Mam Tor and the first climb off the day. Passing Mam Tor runners head across the Great Ridge to Loosehill before a steep descent towards Hope. Checkpoint 2 provides welcome hydration ahead of the stiff climb to the summit of Win Hill. The views from the summit are spectacular. Off Win Hill the legs are tested as we leap through the bracken in the direction of the wood towards Ladybower reservoir. Ladybower was used by RAF 617 squadron to practice low level flying techniques ahead of the bouncing bomb raids to German dams.

Home - 3:41:00

Past experience makes me wary of the line through the woods. A footstep too left or right can mean you miss the third checkpoint. Thankfully this year I'm accompanied by a fellow entrant who confirms the path and we land at checkpoint 3 as planned. After checkpoint 3 the route follows the reservoir for approximately 3 miles and I manage to run strong. The heat is taking its toll and its tempting to dive in the wide expanse of blue water. A short while later its checkpoint 4 and the first energy powder. I drink a lot when its as hot as it was today but prefer to mix the odd energy drink with plain water. This year I take a different ascent through the woods and on to Jaggers Clough. Luck more than judgement brings me out where I need to be and I head on with renewed enthusiasm. 

A fine spread

At Jaggers Clough its time to dip my head band in the cold stream and immerse myself with water. It was very hot today and I felt the heat particularly between Jagger's Clough and Edale. From Jaggers the route contours the lower flanks of the magnificent Kinder Scout towards Edale and the penultimate checkpoint before the finish. I was still running strong with perhaps eight miles left to go but I knew there was a stiff climb to the top of Hollins Cross, a descent to Castleton before the final long drag up Cave Dale and down Oxlow Rake. I'm well acquainted with Cave Dale having run up there many times on other events. I felt strong in the final miles which is encouraging. I knew there were two folks ahead but couldn't make in roads on them. In the event I finished in 3 hours 41 minutes in third position. 42 runners set off at 11.30am. There were 110ish walkers that had left at 9am, many of whom I passed on route. Approaching the summit of Win Hill I passed a lady that enters (and finishes) every year. Now in her 70's it was inspirational to see her romp up possibly the toughest assent of the day. I hope I'm still participating at that age, brilliant! 

The Peakers Stroll is a highlight of the running year. A great value event. In 2011 it cost less than ten pounds to enter and for that you can take part in a 25, 17 or 9 mile walk or run. A good quality certificate is given to each finisher and every entrant is treated to either soup or ploughman's and an assault on the home made cakes. A fantastic day out enjoying some of the best views of the dark and white peak district, running with friends in glorious sunshine, perfect.   

The Inaugural Summer Solstice 10K



Race Director Robert Mcardle starts the first Summer Solstice 10k on behalf of Grantham Athletics Club.



It was time to answer the call of duty and help to marshall the inaugural Summer Solstice 10K organised by Grantham Athletics Club. 165 people turned out on a drizzly, slightly humid summer evening to lung burst their way down Valley Lane and back through Staunton and Staunton in the Vale.   

I watched the start of the race before running to the car, donning my fluorescent jacket and driving to marshall position 6 where I was to shepherd, encourage and cajole runners back towards Long Bennington. The lead car appeared some twenty minutes after we took our position closely followed by first runner Mike Chapman of Nene Valley Harriers.

Enjoying the race fun!

The first 10 or so runners were fairly spread out, then came a pack of approximately 10 others followed by a steady steam of athletes celebrating the end of the working week in style.

Mike Chapman maintained his lead to win the race in 35:16. First lady and fifth overall was Debbie Mason of Rotherham Harriers. Dawn Carter of Sleaford Striders propped up the field, with a strong finish and a time of 1:08:34. All finishers received a bottle of specially commissioned Summer Solstice Ale provided by the Sleaford Brewery and a voucher for a gourmet burger from the ale house barbecue. 

Post race comments were encouraging with runners speaking highly of a good value event. For a £7 affiliated entry fee receiving a bottle of ale and food at the finish can't be bad. One to enter early in 2012.    

Redcar Half Marathon 2011

Post Race Radio Fun

What a difference a year makes. 2011 bought warm sunshine to the start of the Redcar Half Marathon which was in stark contrast to the previous year when it was cold and it rained. The trip to Teeside is a good opportunity to catch up with Becki and Whitty, friends from university and their daughters Lucy and Emily. Its also a good excuse to get 13.1 miles on the legs over a  fairly fast half marathon course.  The Redcar Half Marathon begins on the sea front at Redcar and then heads South for a mile before returning past the start and out North towards Middlesbrough along a dual carriageway

Paul and Support Crew

past a massive steel plant and returning along the opposite carriageway just before Grangetown.  Road race organisers find it increasingly difficult to gain the necessary consents to close carriageways to traffic but the Redcar race runs approximately 8 miles along a closed A1085 trunk road which means runners have plenty of room to run. Although there is plenty of room on the course, the start of this race was fairly cramped. Some 1500 athletes gathered to wait for Olympics swimmer and local athlete Joanne Jackson to start the race.

Finely Tuned Athletes

The previous evening we had to exercise extreme discipline not to get carried away with the stella and white wine. I think I managed better than Paul but the fine pasta prepared by Becki may have helped to soak the worst of it up.  Either way we were in better post alcohol shape than the previous year although I heard Whitty had been on a session on the previous Friday which can't have helped.I started steadily, cautiously aware of the possible effects ofthe heat from the sun mixed with the likelihood of mild dehydration from the previous evening's festivities. By Mile 7 I felt strong and had bounce in my legs that I wanted to exploit in the second half. I was surprised at how good I felt at mile seven but as I made the 180 degree turn to face the second half I became immediately aware that a strong tail wind had pushed me towards Boro and I was going to have to fight a head wind for the remaining six miles to the finish. The head wind was tough but I was grateful that the sun had hidden behind increasing clouds. I managed to plunder back to the coast road and battled mentally with myself to keep speed over the final two miles. I finished in 1:29:08 slightly disappointed. I thought I'd run faster and would have at least liked to have gone under 1:29. The positives are that I felt good over the distance and  the previous year I had only managed 1:31 in my first race since a grim bout of plantar faciitis which put me out of action for a couple of months. In addition I didn't get the best starts and the head wind might help add to excuses.  

Post Race Fun Chasing the North Sea

After the race I retrieved a medal and a t-shirt, had a quick wander to see the ships at sea and then went to find Tracy, Becki and the children. We watched in anticipation for Whitty to return and attempted to stop the children from injuring the finishing runners with there out of control scooters. Whitty returned in 2:03:42 which was 'remarkable' given the previous evenings shenanigans (I've seen worse). 

We all retired to enjoy the fun fair adjacent to the finish. We were interviewed inside the TFM radio bus. The interviewer, randomly wanted to know about a business idea which could be good for the local area. The best we could muster was 'indoor fishing' suggested after witnessing the same in Japan earlier in the year. I don't think it's going to go anywhere.... It rained heavily all the way back to Grantham and we witnessed the aftermath of an accident on the opposite carriageway including a military land rover on its roof. A couple of miles further we felt a bit helpless as we saw the air ambulance making steep round about turns high above the carriageway. It looked like it couldn't find the scene of the accident through the poor visibility but we obviously couldn't assist.