Well, this was the last race of the series, and for me, a great end to a great year! I was slightly apprehensive about this race due to the different reports I had read/heard beforehand. However, I have to say that I enjoyed the course mostly and it was certainly a change from the previous races, being mostly flat. I ended up running the last 20 miles of the course with a local girl, Claire, and we finished together in 8 hours 20 minutes which I was delighted with, and joint second place. It was a real help running with someone who knew the course, particularly as my map had disintegrated in the rain...so I am very thankful to her. Kate did brilliantly and got a new course record.
I had to miss the Runfurther party and prize giving but I was so pleased to find that our Ladies Team had got first prize in the UK ultra running championship, and so had the Men. What a fabulous result!
And I have to echo the sentiments of Martyn too, and say thank-you to the Runfurther team for all their support and help, and for making this such a special year for me.
Tuesday 9 November 2010
Saturday 6 November 2010
And relax...
My final ultra of the season (and the Runfurther series) was Rowbotham's Round Rotherham. When I was choosing my races at the beginning of this adventure the 50 mile distance was beyond my comprehension - just a long long race that I had no idea how I was going to finish! However over the last three races I'd discovered that the primary requirement for ultra running is stubbornness, not always a great quality in general life but in this environment I've finally found a use for it...
Unfortunately during the High Peak 40 I developed a painful knee that prevented me from doing any running until a week before RRR. This meant that my primary objective for the race was to survive intact (or at least get far enough round the course before injury that I'd be able to hobble to the finish).
Having taken the great decision to stay the previous night in a nearby hotel I lined up for the 7am start not unduly tired and looking forward to a good long day's running. The first few miles were unevenful if a bit dull and I was able to settle into a decent rhythm. Around 18 miles in my lack of preparation was beginning to show mentally with lots of "why bother?" questions that I tried to ignore. Thankfully the frequent checkpoints were brilliant, where you could sit whilst lots of volunteers were dispensing food and drinks, although the chairs were very difficult to get out of at times!
Having been through every terrain possible (including a sodden golf course) I eventually caught up with Henry who I had met during my first ultra at Osmotherley. This season he'd become a bit of a specialist at DNF-ing, most recently at the Hardmoor's 100 where a cattle grid/ ankle combination eventually put an end to his race (only 11 out of 30 competitors made it to the end) so was determined to complete this one. We ended up running together on and off all the way to the end.
Together we looked to be on course for a 10 hour time but managed to take a wrong turn between the last checkpoint and the finish and eventually got directions from a local who unfortunately I need to apologise to for saying he was winding us up when he said how far the finish was! Eventually we did make it to the hall where there was welcome hot food, drinks and even tea cakes. Best of all though was the feeling of achievement - managed to keep me satisfied for all of a week!
As it happened, the following weekend I was in Venice for a holiday and to take part in a marathon I had signed up for back in March. I had planned on skipping the run but as I had survived RRR intact I thought I'd go to the well one more time... A mistake really - was running pretty well until 19 miles then my legs just had enough and ended up crawling home in 3:43. Disappointing for sure but I'm thinking my days of road racing are numbered - tarmac is pretty unforgiving!
Thanks to all at Runfurther for all their great support this year and the opportunity to run with them in these fantastic races! Next year I'm hoping to continue running long and maybe attempt a 100 miler... unbelieveable!
Unfortunately during the High Peak 40 I developed a painful knee that prevented me from doing any running until a week before RRR. This meant that my primary objective for the race was to survive intact (or at least get far enough round the course before injury that I'd be able to hobble to the finish).
Having taken the great decision to stay the previous night in a nearby hotel I lined up for the 7am start not unduly tired and looking forward to a good long day's running. The first few miles were unevenful if a bit dull and I was able to settle into a decent rhythm. Around 18 miles in my lack of preparation was beginning to show mentally with lots of "why bother?" questions that I tried to ignore. Thankfully the frequent checkpoints were brilliant, where you could sit whilst lots of volunteers were dispensing food and drinks, although the chairs were very difficult to get out of at times!
Having been through every terrain possible (including a sodden golf course) I eventually caught up with Henry who I had met during my first ultra at Osmotherley. This season he'd become a bit of a specialist at DNF-ing, most recently at the Hardmoor's 100 where a cattle grid/ ankle combination eventually put an end to his race (only 11 out of 30 competitors made it to the end) so was determined to complete this one. We ended up running together on and off all the way to the end.Together we looked to be on course for a 10 hour time but managed to take a wrong turn between the last checkpoint and the finish and eventually got directions from a local who unfortunately I need to apologise to for saying he was winding us up when he said how far the finish was! Eventually we did make it to the hall where there was welcome hot food, drinks and even tea cakes. Best of all though was the feeling of achievement - managed to keep me satisfied for all of a week!
As it happened, the following weekend I was in Venice for a holiday and to take part in a marathon I had signed up for back in March. I had planned on skipping the run but as I had survived RRR intact I thought I'd go to the well one more time... A mistake really - was running pretty well until 19 miles then my legs just had enough and ended up crawling home in 3:43. Disappointing for sure but I'm thinking my days of road racing are numbered - tarmac is pretty unforgiving!
Thanks to all at Runfurther for all their great support this year and the opportunity to run with them in these fantastic races! Next year I'm hoping to continue running long and maybe attempt a 100 miler... unbelieveable!
Sunday 26 September 2010
High Peak 40
Last weekend I went up to Buxton for the High Peak 40 where perfect conditions awaited the lucky starters. Admittedly 'lucky' wasn't the word I was using pre-race - after my poor run at Bradwell something between apprehensive and scared was more appropriate, after all I was back in the Peak District but this time had another 8 miles to do.On the plus side, training had gone well in the previous few weeks and in the race itself I got talking to another novice called Dave who was going at a similar pace and we ended up doing the whole course together. This made life a lot easier and the miles seemed to fly by chatting. To be fair to Dave I think he was taking it a little easy as I was saying bad things about the hills and he was running 'The Beast' down in Leicestershire the next day - certainly mad enough to be an ultrarunner!
As it turned out the hills were manageable, for the first time ever we were actually willing there to be more so we could have a break from running! There was a fair amount of roads but this was offset by the lovely scenery and the incredibly friendly checkpoints. As well as great encouragement we were even made a cup of tea near the end (sorry to destroy any notion of toughness).
Another aspect that I particularly enjoyed was the signposting - there was never any doubt about the right route which took the pressure off, 40 miles is quite far enough. The only negative point for me was feeling a tightness behind my knee after 32 miles that reduced me to a hobble when walking but was manageable enough when running. 8 days on I can still feel it but the limp has gone now so hopefully I'll be able to start training on it later in the week.
My final time was 8:24:33, quicker than Bradwell so I was fairly satisfied. Only one more race to go in the series now, the Round Rotherham, a nice 50 mile jaunt - for the first time since joining the team I'm actually looking forward to it!
Saturday 18 September 2010
Pumlumon
Race 3 in the series for me. I had heard that this was going to be quite tough with all the big tussocks and boggy terrain. It had also been raining for most of the week so I was thinking that could make it more difficult. I had spent a week near Aberystwyth back in June when the weather had been a lot kinder, and so I had been able to do some running around the Cambrian mountain area then. I thought this would have helped me in the race but then I did not account for the mist and wet conditions! I met up with Mark and Martin at the start, and also got to meet Kate for the first time too. We had the luxury of the Nant Yr Arian forestry centre to shelter in before the start, and then after some final race instructions, it was off fairly gently at first around the lake and through the woods. The next five miles or so were fairly easy, but then came the climb up to Pumlumon Fawr, and the mist came down, the temperature dropped and the wind picked up. Suddenly it all seemed very bleak and remote. Amazingly, a huddle of volunteers were providing water & energy goodies at the Cairn on the top. The next few miles on the top moorland felt hard because of the wind & cold. But then it was downhill and at the start of the Severn way, the sun came out briefly. There was a well defined path of flagstones along the stream here and running felt comfortable again. However, things changed rapidly as the route became less obvious and started to involve navigating a way through the boggy tussocks. I lost count of how many times I fell into the gaps between the tussocks! This seemed to go on for miles interspersed with some hills which were a relief from the tussocks. The last few miles were mostly on tracks. I had been running with Mark Townsend and chatting about his UTMB experience and we missed a turn. Fortunately, he was able to get us back on route quickly, and we picked up a bit of speed after this. The run into the finish was soon upon us and I was able to enjoy the last downhill section into the woods.
There was much appreciated hot drinks, cakes and Pasties provided, the sun shone again and everybody seemed very relaxed. Kate was first lady in an incredibly quick time. Nicky Spinks was second lady and I managed third. Still a long way off their times though!
Next race for me is the Atlantic Coastal Challenge in Cornwall...three marathons in three days, and then Rotherham 50....the last of the series.
Just wanted to say 'Good luck' to those racing at High Peak 40 today! Wish I was doing it too.
Sunday 5 September 2010
A wet Wales and other training
If I've learnt nothing else from my first two utras I now know I really need to get some hill work in. To that end, a couple of weeks ago I swapped my Sunday morning long run from the Sandstone Trail in Cheshire (high point Raw Head 227m) to a far more challenging route covering the Clywdian Range in Wales (high point Moel Famau 554m).Although it was a little ambitious to double the climbing and keep the same 20+ miles distance, the beautiful views over the Vale of Clywd as I ran along the ridge from Moel Famau to Moel Arthur made it more than worthwhile. It took a bit longer than planned but at least I felt it was some 'proper' ultra practice.
Looking to repeat the trick last week I soon discovered that Summer is fast turning into Autumn. After about three miles a few spots of rain appeared and by the time I started the ascent I was in the middle of a full blown storm with visibility down to about 10m! Once I made it to the top and the rain had turned into hailstones I decided the most sensible option was to get back down pronto as I'd left the canoe back at the car...
The last week has been a real mixed bag training wise. On Monday I ran 15 miles in around 1:50 - amazing how much energy you have if you cut your long run in half! On Wednesday I ran into work then in the afternoon had an hour intensive squash coaching followed by a session on the step machine. I felt pretty pleased with myself at the time but by Friday was running in a whole new (painful) style!
Yesterday I met up with some friends to do the Yorkshire Three Peaks. Although we only walked it I'm hoping that by now my quads are getting some idea of what's expected of them. The route itself was a very enjoyable 25 miles taking in Whernside, Ingleborough and Pen-Y-Ghent. Next April I might have a go at the Three Peaks Race just to see how fast I can do it although I think the incredible winning time of under three hours will be a long way off.
Good luck to everyone running the Pumlumon next week!
Friday 20 August 2010
Martyn's Looooong Tour of Bradwell
Two down, two to go… in my head I’ve now entered the seasoned fell runner bracket! Seriously though, I learnt a lot from the Long Tour of Bradwell, easily summarised by ‘ultras are tough’. Surprising eh?!
The weekend started off at Edale where I met up with the other members of Team Runfurther and quickly forgot the ominous struggles my car had just getting up the hill there. We spent a few hours checking out the Kinder part of the course and posing with sponsored kit. The scenery was breathtaking prompting Martin B’s rueful comment that it’s a shame he doesn’t have time to take it in when he’s racing. I suggested he ran at my pace which would allow him to enjoy each blade of grass, “there’ll be plenty of time for that when I’m 70” was the response!
After Osmotherley I felt really good and thought I’d take it out a little harder this time. In retrospect this was a mistake. My troubles began once I’d left the Druid Stone behind and started the steep descent where my toes began to hit the front of the shoes in a rather painful manner. Then going up Lose Hill, cramp began to set in (note to self, spend more time on step machines) which then came back frequently, set off by anything from tough stiles to dense heather. After some helpful guidance by fellow runners pointing out checkpoint 13 which was located down a slope above a river (the organisers had more faith in my balance after 23 miles than I did) I slowly and painfully made my way back to Bradwell, eventually clocking a disappointing time of 8:30.
Needless to say within minutes of finishing I was already thinking “that wasn’t so bad” and was pretty proud of myself for actually finishing the toughest race I had ever done. Just to make sure that it was the race that was tough and not just my lack of conditioning I had a confidence boosting 10 mile race last Sunday at Great Warford where I got a new pb of 1:12:22 - it felt pretty good after going so slowly the previous week however I’m paying for it now with extremely tight calves and general aches caused by road running again.
Next up is the High Peak 40 so I’ll be getting to know this beautiful area of the world even better. I’ve got a few weeks to prepare so am planning on getting in plenty of miles and spending time on the aforementioned step machine… hope my work isn’t expecting too much of me!
The weekend started off at Edale where I met up with the other members of Team Runfurther and quickly forgot the ominous struggles my car had just getting up the hill there. We spent a few hours checking out the Kinder part of the course and posing with sponsored kit. The scenery was breathtaking prompting Martin B’s rueful comment that it’s a shame he doesn’t have time to take it in when he’s racing. I suggested he ran at my pace which would allow him to enjoy each blade of grass, “there’ll be plenty of time for that when I’m 70” was the response!
After Osmotherley I felt really good and thought I’d take it out a little harder this time. In retrospect this was a mistake. My troubles began once I’d left the Druid Stone behind and started the steep descent where my toes began to hit the front of the shoes in a rather painful manner. Then going up Lose Hill, cramp began to set in (note to self, spend more time on step machines) which then came back frequently, set off by anything from tough stiles to dense heather. After some helpful guidance by fellow runners pointing out checkpoint 13 which was located down a slope above a river (the organisers had more faith in my balance after 23 miles than I did) I slowly and painfully made my way back to Bradwell, eventually clocking a disappointing time of 8:30.
Needless to say within minutes of finishing I was already thinking “that wasn’t so bad” and was pretty proud of myself for actually finishing the toughest race I had ever done. Just to make sure that it was the race that was tough and not just my lack of conditioning I had a confidence boosting 10 mile race last Sunday at Great Warford where I got a new pb of 1:12:22 - it felt pretty good after going so slowly the previous week however I’m paying for it now with extremely tight calves and general aches caused by road running again.
Next up is the High Peak 40 so I’ll be getting to know this beautiful area of the world even better. I’ve got a few weeks to prepare so am planning on getting in plenty of miles and spending time on the aforementioned step machine… hope my work isn’t expecting too much of me!
Sunday 15 August 2010
Long Tour of Bradwell race, A man in a bikini & other stuff.
In the middle of July I spent 4 days in Alps on the UTMB training camp with Lizzy Hawker. It was a fantastic experience and I learnt loads from Lizzy who is such an inspiration. I am hoping to do the UTMB next year so it was a good chance to run on the terrain. We ran the whole route in 4 days, but got to sleep in between days. I am sure it really toughened me up and made my legs stronger. A week after I came back I did an off road marathon on Dartmoor and felt like the hills were easy after the mountains of the Alps! I was first lady home so I was so pleased, but more importantly for me I felt that I had more left at the end which I was hoping was encouraging for the Long Tour of Bradwell.
The weekend of Bradwell, I was staying with friends in Edale so Saturday morning I went out with them and walked over the Win hill section of the route. And then in the afternoon I met up with the RunFurther team and did a recce of the Kinder section. Karen and Mark took photo’s of us in our gear. I also got to try some clif shot blocks which I think I am now addicted to, and which are great as an alternative to Gels. It was a lovely afternoon and good fun, but also proved really useful for the race the next day.
The morning of the race, and the weather looked perfect. I was looking forward to the race ahead but I was also worried about the navigation on the bits I did not know. The first section felt quite straight forward and the recce the day before meant the Kinder section went well. I joined up with a bunch of guys to go up over Lose hill, and saw Andy taking photo’s and offering words of support. On the way down we missed the turn and ended up being shouted at by an irate farmer who nearly ran us over in his tractor. We quickly turned around and made backtracks up the field.
The next section up around Win Hill and down to Ladybower was so enjoyable, and felt easy as I was confident I knew where I was going. However, after Bamford and ‘the escalator’ , it was all unknown territory. I was hesitant going over Stanage edge, and made a couple of silly errors. However, fortunately a couple of local guys behind me put me right so ‘thanks’ to them. The last section, and through Abney and almost home. At this point there were three of us running together, and none of us knew the route. We could see Bradwell in the distance, and in our excitement, we did not consult the map and therefore missed the turn off, sailing on along the stoney track. After a bit of running back & forth, and some choice words on my part, we managed to find a way back to connect to the route and it was a sprint into Bradwell . I was delighted to find myself 2nd lady which was a perfect end to a lovely race, and a wonderful weekend.
Waiting for friends to pick me up later, I saw a man in a bikini being chased by ‘police’ and a camera crew filming it. It was all quite amusing but I never did find out what it was all about.
Jayne
Sunday 1 August 2010
Martyn rambling
One week to go before The Long Tour Of Bradwell so I thought I'd give an update on life in between races.
Having spent most of the year prior to the Osmotherley Phoenix being 'ultra' disciplined with my diet - no wine; cheese; anything nice, the last last month has seen a bit of relapse. Still, at least I've managed to keep the runs going. Apart from a couple of games of squash (amazingly won) I had the week off after OP. Then I did a couple of 55-65 mile weeks including a really enjoyable long run from Hampton Court along the Thames. It did make me wonder why all the races in the series insist on being hilly. 279 ft is quite enough!
Having spent most of the year prior to the Osmotherley Phoenix being 'ultra' disciplined with my diet - no wine; cheese; anything nice, the last last month has seen a bit of relapse. Still, at least I've managed to keep the runs going. Apart from a couple of games of squash (amazingly won) I had the week off after OP. Then I did a couple of 55-65 mile weeks including a really enjoyable long run from Hampton Court along the Thames. It did make me wonder why all the races in the series insist on being hilly. 279 ft is quite enough!
In other news, a beautiful pair of shoes arrived courtesy of Team Runfurther/Vasque. After the obligatory half and hour drooling on they went and it was off to the Delamere Forest! After a rather over-exuberant run, including some uncharacteristic searching out of steep banks to go up I was delighted with them. My only previous experience of trail shoes was 3 years ago and was quickly nipped in the bud after losing 2 toe-nails to the Clwydian Hills on my first run. These were a revelation though, going from cushioned road shoes I thought I would really miss the comfort but despite the odd design (no inner sole) they're really smooth. Coupled with lots of room in the toe box, good grip in mud and a hideous colour they're a hit with me!
Hopefully the shoes will make life a little easier next weekend but my quads have their doubts - 6500 ft of climbing! Scary... see you on the other side!
Saturday 31 July 2010
series completed
Well enough races complete to count in the series, tackling all 12 in one year would be something else. Having spent quite some time over the last few years pondering over whether to have a crack at the Runfurther series, even last year setting out to do so (an attempt which came to a sticky end 2 races in when trying to run too soon after the Fellsman, resulting to hip problems which in turn lead to be knocked off my bike, but thats another story) this year I again decided yes.
So on to 2010, and as ever the best laid plans....a struggle at the Haworth Hobble meant I did not toe the line at Hardmoors, which meant for various reasons the best long for me would be the Lakeland 50. As ever the week before was one of worry - had I recovered from a 3 day jaunt going round the TMB? would my sciatica ease off in time? and would I find my way round?
My plan for the race was simple - let Kate bomb off in front, race for second (assuming Kate did not blow up or worse), do not go off too hard and push towards the end (which was also the only bit of the course I was familiar with).
Race day dawned and the bus journey was made more enjoyable by listening to the conversations of 4 guys who, shall we say were taking it a little less seriously than I was - I must have looked kill joy with my race face on as growing conversation continued all around me. This also helped take my mind of the knowledge that my pre-hydration plan had not factored in being held captive in a bus for quite as long - something others must also have felt as arrival at Dalemain was met with 350 odd bladders all wanting to be emptied, and two portaloos.....
Once under way the race was going to plan - Kate bombed off and showed no sign of blowing up, Mark H however was not in such good nick and I was slowly gaining on him as we descended to CP 1 (sorry Mark you may have been unwell and unfit, but you still count as a major scalp!!). Unfortunately for me however, despite covering most of my feet with zinc oxide tape pre-race I had forgotten to also tape the small of my back which was starting to rub.
Luckily the marshall at Howtown was totally unfazed as wet and focused I shoved bits of tape into her hand and exposed my back. Once sorted it was back on route, but Mark was up and away, managing to avoid making the same mistake as Martin going up Fusedale by dint of those around me. Mardale brought the unwelcome sight of Kate sitting in the landrover 'you idiot' was I am afraid was all I could think of saying before heading off up Gatesgarth, now on my own and 'map dependent'.
Martin was right, you can not avoid the rocks going down the valley track, with it now wet and Kate's ankle fresh in my mind I managed to find a balance between steady and speed. A minor diversion around a knoll en route and Kentmere was reached, and quickly left, to be met with a traffic jam coming down Garburn in the form of two ranger rover like things.
The rain now was fairly consistent and I started pondering whether it was in the rules of the race to buy a second pair of gloves at Lakesrunner (not withstanding the fact that I did not have any money on me...). Minor navigational hic up no 2 was shared with 3 guys on the 100 before Ambleside was reached and somewhat surprisingly (but much welcomed) there were people cheering the runners on.
Still feeling good now it was time to tick off the land marks and maybe think about motoring - or maybe not along the drag of the Cumbria Way. Navigational hic up no 3 and a minor panic occurred at Langdale as having run 50 m past the 50 to go sign I could not see another sign for the checkpoint, this brought the road book out and relief to find the school.
Still feeling strong on the next section I was however caught and passed by two guys (don't you just hate that) before Tiberwaite - now the watch watching started - was 10 hours possible? I had around 50 minutes left to do so, time to put the boot in; except the boot (and everything else) by this stage was feeling tired. The drag up Crook Beck seemed much longer than when I had recced it a few weeks before and by the time I reached the top it was certainly half light at best, with the slippy path to follow. Constant wiping my eyes, trying to say steady and not push to hard meant I got to the track with only one 3/4 fall and then as best as you can after 47 odd miles tried to sprint.
Of course I also kept trying to see how long I had - not clever really given the light and the fact it was slowing me down to do so -just enough as it turned out, sprinting into the finish with under two minutes to spare. At which point the only place I was going was a chair, finally giving my legs a break - apologies here to the people who wanted to weight me again.
One week later and most of the aches have gone, although it will take a bit longer to get some freshness in my legs - thanks to Mark L and his team for a great race and Kate, hope the ankle recovers soon.
Sarah Rowell
So on to 2010, and as ever the best laid plans....a struggle at the Haworth Hobble meant I did not toe the line at Hardmoors, which meant for various reasons the best long for me would be the Lakeland 50. As ever the week before was one of worry - had I recovered from a 3 day jaunt going round the TMB? would my sciatica ease off in time? and would I find my way round?
My plan for the race was simple - let Kate bomb off in front, race for second (assuming Kate did not blow up or worse), do not go off too hard and push towards the end (which was also the only bit of the course I was familiar with).
Race day dawned and the bus journey was made more enjoyable by listening to the conversations of 4 guys who, shall we say were taking it a little less seriously than I was - I must have looked kill joy with my race face on as growing conversation continued all around me. This also helped take my mind of the knowledge that my pre-hydration plan had not factored in being held captive in a bus for quite as long - something others must also have felt as arrival at Dalemain was met with 350 odd bladders all wanting to be emptied, and two portaloos.....
Once under way the race was going to plan - Kate bombed off and showed no sign of blowing up, Mark H however was not in such good nick and I was slowly gaining on him as we descended to CP 1 (sorry Mark you may have been unwell and unfit, but you still count as a major scalp!!). Unfortunately for me however, despite covering most of my feet with zinc oxide tape pre-race I had forgotten to also tape the small of my back which was starting to rub.
Luckily the marshall at Howtown was totally unfazed as wet and focused I shoved bits of tape into her hand and exposed my back. Once sorted it was back on route, but Mark was up and away, managing to avoid making the same mistake as Martin going up Fusedale by dint of those around me. Mardale brought the unwelcome sight of Kate sitting in the landrover 'you idiot' was I am afraid was all I could think of saying before heading off up Gatesgarth, now on my own and 'map dependent'.
Martin was right, you can not avoid the rocks going down the valley track, with it now wet and Kate's ankle fresh in my mind I managed to find a balance between steady and speed. A minor diversion around a knoll en route and Kentmere was reached, and quickly left, to be met with a traffic jam coming down Garburn in the form of two ranger rover like things.
The rain now was fairly consistent and I started pondering whether it was in the rules of the race to buy a second pair of gloves at Lakesrunner (not withstanding the fact that I did not have any money on me...). Minor navigational hic up no 2 was shared with 3 guys on the 100 before Ambleside was reached and somewhat surprisingly (but much welcomed) there were people cheering the runners on.
Still feeling good now it was time to tick off the land marks and maybe think about motoring - or maybe not along the drag of the Cumbria Way. Navigational hic up no 3 and a minor panic occurred at Langdale as having run 50 m past the 50 to go sign I could not see another sign for the checkpoint, this brought the road book out and relief to find the school.
Still feeling strong on the next section I was however caught and passed by two guys (don't you just hate that) before Tiberwaite - now the watch watching started - was 10 hours possible? I had around 50 minutes left to do so, time to put the boot in; except the boot (and everything else) by this stage was feeling tired. The drag up Crook Beck seemed much longer than when I had recced it a few weeks before and by the time I reached the top it was certainly half light at best, with the slippy path to follow. Constant wiping my eyes, trying to say steady and not push to hard meant I got to the track with only one 3/4 fall and then as best as you can after 47 odd miles tried to sprint.
Of course I also kept trying to see how long I had - not clever really given the light and the fact it was slowing me down to do so -just enough as it turned out, sprinting into the finish with under two minutes to spare. At which point the only place I was going was a chair, finally giving my legs a break - apologies here to the people who wanted to weight me again.
One week later and most of the aches have gone, although it will take a bit longer to get some freshness in my legs - thanks to Mark L and his team for a great race and Kate, hope the ankle recovers soon.
Sarah Rowell
Tuesday 6 July 2010
Osmotherly Phoenix
My first race for the Runfurther team, and I was excited about it but also a little apprehensive. I was not sure what to expect in tems of the terrain as the area was new to me. The morning of the race was a bit stressful as we drove around madly trying to buy a map of the North York moors. Unfortunately the map we had ordered had not arrived before we left Cornwall, so we we felt very disorganised having to buy one on the day! Anyway, with a map bought in Thirsk we drove on to Osmotherly for the start of the race. I met Mark just before the start, and he was just recovering from a chest infection so not racing. The church bells chimed at 9.00 and after a short hesitation we are off. I settled into a relaxed and very comfortable pace and enjoyed the new scenary and splendid views across the moors. Because of the three distances in the race, I could not work out who was doing which distance, and actually this was quite refreshing as I just thought I would go at my pace and not worry about positions. Mark was taking photo's on the downhill section leading to the first checkpoint so I am guessing that everybody was smiling at this point! I tucked in behind two ladies for the next section, and it was fairly easy running through the woods, and cool out of the sun. The next checkpoint, and then after this a fairly steep climb and out onto the moors again. This section was more difficult mentally as it seemed to go on for ever, stretching out in front and seeing runners a long way ahead. Then it was a self clip point at the Trig point and downhill all the way almost to the next checkpoint. Kit was checked here, and time penalties imposed for anyone without all the required items. I saw David (my husband) who gave me lots of encouragement, and then onwards and upwards to what seemed like a vertical climb. Mark was taking photo's here but I am sure I was not smiling! I felt a bit dizzy at the top and dehydrated and not feeling great. Somewhere around here, the marathon runners peeled off to go a different way, and I saw one of the Ladies who had been in front of me not quite sure of which way to go. I was not much help in assisting her as I was not really sure of my own way here! The next bit was all narrow stoney gulleys and I nearly tripped up a couple of times. Things get a bit vague here, but after a short road section there was another checkpoint and David was here taking photo's and being supportive. I had caught up with a small group of runners doing the 33 and I tagged onto them. However, shortly after this I got an agonising cramp in my left calf and had to resort to sitting on the ground thinking my race would be over! Luckily it went, but I was cautious after that and it cost me time definitely. I managed to catch up with a couple of the guys and they were really friendly and helpful and we chatted a little about other races. Another checkpoint and some rehydration tablets provided by another runner ( thanks for that!) and on again. There is usually a bit in a race like this where you want it to be over and I think this was it! It does not last though and I was encouraged when I saw David again, and then I could see Osmotherly in the distance. I met up with Simon on the last stretch. I was amazed to see someone I know, and he is such an inspiration. We stayed together for the last bit and ran in together.
I got to meet the other two Martyns at the end, and they had finished second and third so fantastic results for them. My finishing time was 5.50 and I had hoped to be a little quicker. Not sure where I finished in terms of the Ladies race, but definitely a race I want to do again. Also wish I could have stayed around a bit for the summer games as there was such a lovely atmosphere in the village but it was a long trip back to Cornwall!
Sunday 4 July 2010
Woooo!
That’s the sound of someone who’s just completed their first ultra! (Martyn obviously...)
The day started early with the alarm going off at 5 as I had to drive from Chester over to Osmotherley. By the time the race started at 9 I had already discovered how friendly the ultra-running community is - good luck preparing for the Hardmoors 110 Henry!
Heat had been a worry beforehand but it turned out to be fairly comfortable (although the fact I took on about 3.5l of fluid without having to run into the bushes might tell a different story). A few miles in it was clear that this was going to be a lot hillier than anything I’d ever done before. Thankfully I didn’t need to swallow my pride too much as there was a lot of vigorous walking going on, presumably the leaders were already over the hills and far away by that stage.
Having initially taken the ‘purist’ route up Cringle Moor and looked down on thousands (ok, maybe tens) of runners go past I thought I’d play it safe and just try and run with people who looked like they knew what they were doing...
Actually the first 13 miles or so of the course were relatively straightforward as it mainly followed the Cleveland Way, a nice, well marked trail. It was once we went down to Chop Gate that my lack of map reading skills became apparent. Fortunately I ended up running with Nick whose answer to “Have you done many of these before?” was a confidence giving “Hundreds.”! Together we covered around about 5 miles before I felt good enough to pick up the pace a bit.
This proved to be about half a mile too soon as I promptly went wrong at the first opportunity and ended up going a mile down hill before realising my error. That was probably the low point of the entire day although I’m sure the climb back up the hill will have taught me a valuable lesson for future races.
After that it was a fairly comfortable slow run back into Osmotherley where the summer games were in full swing. Unfortunately I had just missed the welly tossing competition but got to meet up with Mark (who had some pitiful excuse about a chest infection preventing him from running) and Martin who had finished an impressive 3rd and looked coolness personified sporting the Runfurther buff...
All in all I had a great day, no cramp (a first for any marathon) and got to eat lots of food at the checkpoints. What’s not to like?! Can’t wait for the Long Tour of Bradwell!
Friday 25 June 2010
EADS Innovation Works Win Again - with Team Runfurther Runners Martin Beale and Martin IndgePowerBar Three Peaks Yacht 2010 – Press Release June 24th
For the second year running the PowerBar Three Peaks Yacht Race was affected by light winds, hampering the progress of the 23 entries up the west coast from Barmouth to Fort William and forcing them into extended periods of rowing. However, the race was no less competitive with the leading 4 yachts arriving at the finish within 30 minutes of each other and the final positions being decided by the run on Ben Nevis.
The race, now in its 33rd year, was established in honour of sailor/mountaineer Major H.W Tilman and is for teams of five (3 crew and 2 runners) and requires teams to sail 389 miles up the West Coast, stopping off at Caernarfon, Whitehaven and finally Fort William, from where the runners race up and down the highest peaks in Wales, England and Scotland. (Snowdon, Scafell Pike and Ben Nevis.) The total running distance is 72 miles with 14,000 feet of climbing and an additional 26 miles of cycling on the stage in the Lake District.
Entries this year ranged from a 25 foot Hunter Delta to a Bavaria 46 foot cruiser as they race is open to most ocean going yachts, racing on equal terms with no handicap. The majority are skippered by their owners and sailed by groups of friends, and the race has no prize money. This year the race (which has been copied around the world) had two international entries, one from Israel and another from Tasmania. Team Whistler were the winners of this year’s Tasmanian 3 Peaks Yacht Race and travelled across the world to the UK, aiming to compete a unique double.
Team Whistler lead off the start and they were the first to arrive in Caernarfon and complete the 24 mile run over Mount Snowdon before safely negotiating the dangerous passage of the Menai Strait. This narrow rocky channel is difficult to pass through and several yachts ran aground on rocks and sand banks, with White Clouds being forced to withdraw and the Israeli entry having to use their engine, resulting in disqualification.
After a slow passage to Whitehaven the longest mountain stage took the runners by bike to Ennerdale, and from there over Black Sail pass to Wasdale, from where they climbed Scafell Pike. Quickest on this stage were the runners from defending champions EADS Innovation Works, Martin Beale and Martin Indge, who took 7 hours 09 minutes. This run enabled their yacht, the 21 year old X99 owned by skipper Geoff West, to get out of Whitehaven a tide ahead of all of the competition.
They were chased by the rest of the fleet up the west coast to Fort William, passing around the Mull of Galloway and the Mull of Kintyre, and through the Inner Hebridean Isles. EADS Innovation Works were competing against bigger and faster yachts, but in the light winds and calms they had the advantage of a lighter boat and rowed their way to victory. A unique feature of the race is that yachts are rowed in periods of calm and EADS Innovation had Piers Cobham on board, a former Cambridge and UK rower. “I think we must have rowed 24 hours out of the last 36,” he said, “and that is what kept us ahead.” They arrived at the basin at the end of the Caledonian Canal at 13.42, just 8 minutes ahead of the Australians on Team Whistler (Reflex 38), who were quickly followed by Topsham Sea Fever (Arona 40) and The Dockers (Red Admiral 36).
The EADS runners took just 3 hours 15 minutes to get up and down Ben Nevis in foul weather and were first across the line to secure another win for their team, an impressive achievement in a 21 year old yacht. Their total race time was 96 hours 37 minutes, finishing 25 minutes ahead of The Dockers, whose runners gained two places on the final mountain run to secure second place. Team Whistler were 3rd and Topsham Sea Fever finished 4th and also won the prestigious Tilman Trophy for all round performance by putting 4 of their 5 team members on a summit.
Monday 21 June 2010
Hello from Jayne!
Well, like Martyn, I was completely surprised when I had the phone call from Mark to say that I had won the competition to be part of the runfurther team. Surprise soon turned to excitement about being part of such an elite team, but also a bit of nervousness about whether I would be good enough, and not wanting to let the team down. I have therefore been training hard over the last few weeks. I have done several long runs on the coast path between St Ives, Land's End and Penzance. Some of the terrain here is quite tough so I thought it would be good preparation for what is to come!
I have also just spent a week camping in Wales, and got the chance to run around
and up Pumlumon. It was a beautiful area, and so quiet with not a soul in sight most of the time. I also saw the Red Kites coming into feed, and it was incredible seeing so many of them, and to think they were almost extinct.I have one last long run now to do before Osmotherly. I am looking forward to the race, and to meeting the other members of the team.
Friday 18 June 2010
Last minute training
Ran the South Downs marathon last weekend as a practice for Osmotherley on the 3rd July. It was my first trail marathon and a really uplifting experience - who knew the countryside was so beautiful?! The hills did get a little bit monotonous by the end but I consoled myself by putting into practice all the ultra advice I've had about walking parts of the course...
Overall I'm pleased with how the body's holding up having been fairly relentless this year, whether it's still in one piece come the end of October may be a different story. This week I've only done one run of 9 miles into work and felt pretty good. Going to run along the Sandstone Trail near where I live in Cheshire tomorrow for 20 miles which poses it's own particular bovine challenges as I found out the other week.
Will then put in around 70 miles next week before easing off for the race. Admittedly I find it difficult to judge just how much I should be training, especially with 4 ultras in 4 months coming up. When something breaks it'll be a result of either too much or not enough I guess!
Friday 4 June 2010
Hello From Martyn!
When Mark phoned me a month ago to tell me the good news it was a real bolt from the blue. I mean, nobody enters competitions actually expecting to win them do they? (Apart from the frighteningly talented individuals in Team Runfurther that is!)
Running ultras has been on my radar for a couple of years but I’ve been content to read about the exploits of others figuring that these crazy distances and challenging routes are just too much for the ordinary runner such as myself. Just how ordinary is shown by my pbs:
10km - 53:45 (Chester Zoo, Oct 05, shocking but it was my first ever race and only 10km)
10m – 1:12:25 (Great Warford, Aug 09)
Half Marathon – 1:41:26 (Helsby, Jan 09)
Marathon – 3:36:05 (Chester, May 10)
The inaugural Chester Marathon was last Monday (31st May) and being only 3 miles down the road it would have been rude not to do it! This is what my running year was previously revolving around. In the event I didn’t have a great race and cramped up badly after around 20 miles staggering home and looking a mess (see picture above).
Still, I’ve got the opportunity to make amends next week when I’m doing a hilly training run otherwise known as the South Downs Marathon, then it's 3 weeks to my first ultra - the Osmotherly Phoenix .The madness begins...
Wednesday 2 June 2010
Two NewTeam Members
Team Runfurther now have two new members from our Running Fitness competition:
Jayne Angilley - from Redruth in Cornwall - an accomplished ultra runner with a few top 3 places under her belt already she will join Sarah Rowell and Kate Bailey as part of our new team line up - read more about Jayne HERE
Maryn Turner - from Chester - new to ultra running Martyn will be letting us know how he gets on being an ultra-runner as he finds out himself! - Read more about Martyn HERE
Welcome both of you to Team Runfurther and we look forward to hearing all about your race experiences and training both on the Blog and in Running Fitness
Jayne Angilley - from Redruth in Cornwall - an accomplished ultra runner with a few top 3 places under her belt already she will join Sarah Rowell and Kate Bailey as part of our new team line up - read more about Jayne HERE
Maryn Turner - from Chester - new to ultra running Martyn will be letting us know how he gets on being an ultra-runner as he finds out himself! - Read more about Martyn HERE
Welcome both of you to Team Runfurther and we look forward to hearing all about your race experiences and training both on the Blog and in Running Fitness
Wednesday 21 April 2010
Team Runfurther Selection
We at runfurther.com have teamed up with Running Fitness magazine to hand pick two new members of the team. We will be picking the new male and female at the end of April and announcing the team line-up in early May 2010. if you want to enter see the competition pages on the website www.runfurther.com
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