Following on from the 2008 MM in Borrowdale, I have dozens of OMM maps For Sale. These are original event maps over printed with the various courses, eg Elite, A-Class, B-Class, C, Long Score, Medium Score, etc. There are actually fifteen different maps and you can buy a bargain bundle of five assorted maps for just £12 including P+P. I've also got some from the last 2005 'KIMM' from Pooley Bridge and some of Galloway in 2006, as planned by our buddy Marcus Scotney.
I have been selling these on ebay, but being the techno-numpty that I am it is driving me made! If you want some, just send me an email, pay by cheque or Bank transfer, or even cash, and I will post them out pronto. Five maps fit neatly folded into an A4 envelope that will coming winging it's way through you letter box by First Class post
Anyone who navigates and uses the high Central Lakeland Fells will value this really useful map. Get them quick.. too good to recycle.
Tuesday 29 September 2009
Whinlatter MTB Duathlon
A new event looming on the horizon is the Whinlatter MTB Duathlon on 15th November.
Staged by Ian Mulvey inconjunction with the Cyclewise Team, it promises to be a great event. See here www.whinlatterduathlon.co.uk for more info. The route is great - excellent riding on the Northern Red Loop and the run route sounds intriging too.
Staged by Ian Mulvey inconjunction with the Cyclewise Team, it promises to be a great event. See here www.whinlatterduathlon.co.uk for more info. The route is great - excellent riding on the Northern Red Loop and the run route sounds intriging too.
Rab Mountain Marathon
A great weekend all round and a really good laugh on Saturday night at the Rab overnight campsite. Why our part of the campsite resembled a bomb site can only be blamed on the dry sunny weather, hence stuff strewn everywhere! If it had been raining I'd have been a lot tidier and more organised.
Great to see so many people; Sarah, Angela, all the way up from Plymouth and a few Northern Mountain Monkeys. Big congratulations to Ant. Emmett and Helen Jackson for a storming run to place very highly in the Elite, and also to Dave and Jerry who struggled through against all odds with bad guts.
The Howgills always make for hard Mountain Marathon courses and are confusing even in good weather. Some really steep slopes, both up and down, and the inevitable contouring conspire to make some pretty sore feet ... even caught Wilko griping a bit! I wonder what it would have been like in the mist.
Well Done to the Rab Team - nice to do a MM in a manageable size. Great effort.
Great to see so many people; Sarah, Angela, all the way up from Plymouth and a few Northern Mountain Monkeys. Big congratulations to Ant. Emmett and Helen Jackson for a storming run to place very highly in the Elite, and also to Dave and Jerry who struggled through against all odds with bad guts.
The Howgills always make for hard Mountain Marathon courses and are confusing even in good weather. Some really steep slopes, both up and down, and the inevitable contouring conspire to make some pretty sore feet ... even caught Wilko griping a bit! I wonder what it would have been like in the mist.
Well Done to the Rab Team - nice to do a MM in a manageable size. Great effort.
Saturday 19 September 2009
Awesome!!!
Perhaps I've been around too many Aussies this weekend whilst watching the 24hour Race and the 100km Race at Keswick Ultra and Mountain Running Festival.
We caught up with the 24hr on Thursday evening, after they had been running for 7-8 hours, then I got up early on Friday to witness the same runners still circling the 1km loop in Fitz Park as dawn broke. All shapes and sizes, with the majority looking just as they did at 19 hours as they had at 8 hours. Sadly, I had to go to work rather than stay and see the finish, but I felt priveliged to be there, in spirit at least.
Many of those 24hr athletes were in Thirlmere today supporting their 100km team mates; some very conspicious by their stiffness, hobble or limp. Others looked fresh, especially one of the Scottish team out walking her dogs; Pauline, I think is her name. I heard another one say, 'I'm not fast enough to race 100km' so that is why he runs for 24hours instead! Some every impressive performances were to be seen, and anyone setting off on either jaunt is braver then most.
It was brilliant to see Jez Bragg striding down the somewhat surreal coned off lane of the A66 to win the Gold medal. Jez only took the lead at 95k - controlled and disciplined running having ridden a bad patch, mid race, no doubt. Sadly, one or two others had a less good day, and our good friend Marcus did not finish in the way he wished for but will be back stronger in his next race.
Athletes - one and all.
We caught up with the 24hr on Thursday evening, after they had been running for 7-8 hours, then I got up early on Friday to witness the same runners still circling the 1km loop in Fitz Park as dawn broke. All shapes and sizes, with the majority looking just as they did at 19 hours as they had at 8 hours. Sadly, I had to go to work rather than stay and see the finish, but I felt priveliged to be there, in spirit at least.
Many of those 24hr athletes were in Thirlmere today supporting their 100km team mates; some very conspicious by their stiffness, hobble or limp. Others looked fresh, especially one of the Scottish team out walking her dogs; Pauline, I think is her name. I heard another one say, 'I'm not fast enough to race 100km' so that is why he runs for 24hours instead! Some every impressive performances were to be seen, and anyone setting off on either jaunt is braver then most.
It was brilliant to see Jez Bragg striding down the somewhat surreal coned off lane of the A66 to win the Gold medal. Jez only took the lead at 95k - controlled and disciplined running having ridden a bad patch, mid race, no doubt. Sadly, one or two others had a less good day, and our good friend Marcus did not finish in the way he wished for but will be back stronger in his next race.
Athletes - one and all.
Monday 14 September 2009
Lake District Mountain Trial
Yesterday, I went to Eskdale to ride MTB and watch the LDMTA finish. I was too late to enter or catch the start, but Eskdale is an amazing place and so different to the Eastern Lakes where I live.
I was mightily impressed by those I saw finishing The Trial. Although not a big event, it is steeped in a (50+ Year) history and those who compete are 'real' mountain runners. The course maps were displayed at the finish, and routes required to execute the most efficient racing lines need excellent navigation skills and the real ability to travel fast and fleetingly over rough Lakeland mountain terrain.
I was very impressed and a little bit embrassed that I can no longer do such stuff... post race blues, and I wasn't evene racing! However, Eskdale is a beautiful place far from the maddening crowds of Ambleside or Keswick, and I always drive away promising to spend more time there.
Well Done All you Mountain Runners.
I was mightily impressed by those I saw finishing The Trial. Although not a big event, it is steeped in a (50+ Year) history and those who compete are 'real' mountain runners. The course maps were displayed at the finish, and routes required to execute the most efficient racing lines need excellent navigation skills and the real ability to travel fast and fleetingly over rough Lakeland mountain terrain.
I was very impressed and a little bit embrassed that I can no longer do such stuff... post race blues, and I wasn't evene racing! However, Eskdale is a beautiful place far from the maddening crowds of Ambleside or Keswick, and I always drive away promising to spend more time there.
Well Done All you Mountain Runners.
Wednesday 2 September 2009
Hebridean Challenge 2010
Here it is, the advanced info for Heb 2010, hot of the press following much consultation and debate. This is it; the website will be update asap.
Hebridean Challenge 2010 - News Update
The route will remain as the classic week long Multi-sport stage race, journeying along the length of the Outer Hebrides from the Island of Barra to the Butt of Lewis. Just look at it on a road atlas – it’s simply awesome and a lot longer and wilder than many realize. The 2010 Race will be from Sunday 4th July to Friday 9th July, starting with a half day Prologue on Barra, and then racing from Eriskay to Lewis, Monday to Friday.
There will be three distinct categories – Teams, Pairs and Trios – this latter category being a new development for 2010.
Hebridean Challenge – ‘Team of Five’ – This is the original Heb Challenge format and the UK’s toughest Mountain Multi-sport Adventure Race. A relay format with the mixed sex team covering all disciplines; running, MTB, cycling, swim, kayak. Not all team members need to do every discipline/stage.
Hebridean Challenge – ‘Pairs’ - Team of Two – covering all disciplines, (as above) in a self supporting relay. One of the pair needs to be sea kayak specialist, and ideally the other a swimmer; both will need to run, cycle, MTB … it’s a busy race experience.
Hebridean Trio Challenge ‘HTC’ – The new Non-Kayaking class, but with swimming stage(s). This new class has the strap-line of ‘three mates in a car’ and is the simplest and cheapest way to access The Heb, as it can be done using the average sized car with just two bikes. The logistics and slightly easier route choices and ‘accessibility’ is designed for Heb newcomers and those wanting a relatively easy/stress free adventure. It will also be an excellent way to ‘suss’ The Heb for future years.
Are you up to The Heb Challenge? – UK racers are often bemoaning the lack of good UK races; well this is the mother of all UK Mountain-Multisport events. It’s not easy … and you won’t get served it to you on a plate, but it’s the original and best. Put it firmly on your agenda now.
Unfortunately the cost of staging such a race is never cheap and the race entry has had to rise in recent years due to some grant funding having expired. Consequently, the race needs to pay for itself, but when you consider the bigger picture, that this is a fabulous week’s adventure, it is worth every penny. The cost will be £350 per person, regardless of whether you are a team, pair or solo.
Start making plans now. There is something for everyone in this mix.
A few simple FAQ's and tips to start;
1) Kayakers will need a three/four star 'ticket' as before
2) Only the teams need to be mixed sex - pairs and trios can be of any combination of gender. We won't be making a fuss about different pairings but discretionary spot prizes may occur depending upon entries.
3) Ferry prices have dropped dramtically. You still need to book a vehicle ticket, and the ferries did book up fast in the 2009 staycation summer. The 5metre vehicle rule is still strongly advised as a guideline, especially for pairs and trios, but we understand that some teams just can not get a vehicle with seats for five people that is less than 5metres, and we can't really police it. (See Pt.4, below) You will have to pay extra for this .. it's your call.
4) Top Tip - travel light - cut the clutter.
5) Bring your mates - have fun - race hard smile lots.
6) All classes are 'self-supporting', ie you don't need a support crew or driver. One of your team will act as driver during each stage.
If you have any questions please fire them to me. I'm trying to get the basics out as early as I can so that you can commit to doing Heb 2010.
The Heb is a 'must do race' - do it in 2010.
More soon.
Joe
Heb 2010 Race Director
Hebridean Challenge 2010 - News Update
The route will remain as the classic week long Multi-sport stage race, journeying along the length of the Outer Hebrides from the Island of Barra to the Butt of Lewis. Just look at it on a road atlas – it’s simply awesome and a lot longer and wilder than many realize. The 2010 Race will be from Sunday 4th July to Friday 9th July, starting with a half day Prologue on Barra, and then racing from Eriskay to Lewis, Monday to Friday.
There will be three distinct categories – Teams, Pairs and Trios – this latter category being a new development for 2010.
Hebridean Challenge – ‘Team of Five’ – This is the original Heb Challenge format and the UK’s toughest Mountain Multi-sport Adventure Race. A relay format with the mixed sex team covering all disciplines; running, MTB, cycling, swim, kayak. Not all team members need to do every discipline/stage.
Hebridean Challenge – ‘Pairs’ - Team of Two – covering all disciplines, (as above) in a self supporting relay. One of the pair needs to be sea kayak specialist, and ideally the other a swimmer; both will need to run, cycle, MTB … it’s a busy race experience.
Hebridean Trio Challenge ‘HTC’ – The new Non-Kayaking class, but with swimming stage(s). This new class has the strap-line of ‘three mates in a car’ and is the simplest and cheapest way to access The Heb, as it can be done using the average sized car with just two bikes. The logistics and slightly easier route choices and ‘accessibility’ is designed for Heb newcomers and those wanting a relatively easy/stress free adventure. It will also be an excellent way to ‘suss’ The Heb for future years.
Are you up to The Heb Challenge? – UK racers are often bemoaning the lack of good UK races; well this is the mother of all UK Mountain-Multisport events. It’s not easy … and you won’t get served it to you on a plate, but it’s the original and best. Put it firmly on your agenda now.
Unfortunately the cost of staging such a race is never cheap and the race entry has had to rise in recent years due to some grant funding having expired. Consequently, the race needs to pay for itself, but when you consider the bigger picture, that this is a fabulous week’s adventure, it is worth every penny. The cost will be £350 per person, regardless of whether you are a team, pair or solo.
Start making plans now. There is something for everyone in this mix.
A few simple FAQ's and tips to start;
1) Kayakers will need a three/four star 'ticket' as before
2) Only the teams need to be mixed sex - pairs and trios can be of any combination of gender. We won't be making a fuss about different pairings but discretionary spot prizes may occur depending upon entries.
3) Ferry prices have dropped dramtically. You still need to book a vehicle ticket, and the ferries did book up fast in the 2009 staycation summer. The 5metre vehicle rule is still strongly advised as a guideline, especially for pairs and trios, but we understand that some teams just can not get a vehicle with seats for five people that is less than 5metres, and we can't really police it. (See Pt.4, below) You will have to pay extra for this .. it's your call.
4) Top Tip - travel light - cut the clutter.
5) Bring your mates - have fun - race hard smile lots.
6) All classes are 'self-supporting', ie you don't need a support crew or driver. One of your team will act as driver during each stage.
If you have any questions please fire them to me. I'm trying to get the basics out as early as I can so that you can commit to doing Heb 2010.
The Heb is a 'must do race' - do it in 2010.
More soon.
Joe
Heb 2010 Race Director
Wow... Busy Summer Sabbatical
I can't believe that it has been so long since I last made a blog posting! Did I lose some?
I guess I've been busy, plus I don't like to post if I haven't got anything worthwhile to say. Since my last post Linz and I enjoyed a particularly thought provoking trip to The Hebrides as part of our Heb social/consultation week, and I've race Open24 with Wilko, plodded around the classic Borrowdale Fell Race, trudling around the Kielder MTB Tri, and just this weekend supported NAV4 in the Open Adventure C2C race. Sadly I decided I just haven't got enough 'AR umph' to race in Portugal so had to pulll out of Team Cruchan, but it feels like the right decision.
That's a round up of summer fun, it even included some training runs and rides! The Dales MTB Centre gets a big thumbs up - great for those tired of Trail Centres and young dudes stood about in baggy shorts. www.dalesmountainbiking.co.uk The Bridge Inn at Grinton does good food and beer.
All good stuff - enjoyable, rewarding, varied and different. The pressing news remains stuff for next years Heb, and so I will post that separately very soon. More topical just now is the Open Adventure C2C where Wilko, Dave and AndyM performed very strongly to finish a creditable third team behind the Big Names of Helly Hansen-Nuun and Accelerate. I wasn't surprised at all .... even though some were. Just proves what quality athletes those three are and hype isn't always neccessary. Hats off to Tom Gibbs who race for two or three days with very bad guts. And to No Frontiers and Calder Valley for jolly good sport.
Big internal debates for me personally about the 'supported' versus 'self-supported' teams but having witnessed both this past weekend I'm convinced that we have teh right mix for the Heb 2010. Details of that follow next.
Joe
I guess I've been busy, plus I don't like to post if I haven't got anything worthwhile to say. Since my last post Linz and I enjoyed a particularly thought provoking trip to The Hebrides as part of our Heb social/consultation week, and I've race Open24 with Wilko, plodded around the classic Borrowdale Fell Race, trudling around the Kielder MTB Tri, and just this weekend supported NAV4 in the Open Adventure C2C race. Sadly I decided I just haven't got enough 'AR umph' to race in Portugal so had to pulll out of Team Cruchan, but it feels like the right decision.
That's a round up of summer fun, it even included some training runs and rides! The Dales MTB Centre gets a big thumbs up - great for those tired of Trail Centres and young dudes stood about in baggy shorts. www.dalesmountainbiking.co.uk The Bridge Inn at Grinton does good food and beer.
All good stuff - enjoyable, rewarding, varied and different. The pressing news remains stuff for next years Heb, and so I will post that separately very soon. More topical just now is the Open Adventure C2C where Wilko, Dave and AndyM performed very strongly to finish a creditable third team behind the Big Names of Helly Hansen-Nuun and Accelerate. I wasn't surprised at all .... even though some were. Just proves what quality athletes those three are and hype isn't always neccessary. Hats off to Tom Gibbs who race for two or three days with very bad guts. And to No Frontiers and Calder Valley for jolly good sport.
Big internal debates for me personally about the 'supported' versus 'self-supported' teams but having witnessed both this past weekend I'm convinced that we have teh right mix for the Heb 2010. Details of that follow next.
Joe
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