Just a quick update - some of us will be overnighting at Hudscales camping barn on Friday 7th Jan prior to our OCR run. So, if you want to come and stay on Friday night, as well as or instead of Saturday, please let me know and I'll book you a bed space.
I'm keen on a short MTB ride Friday afternoon or evening, may be a loop to the pub ....?
Joe
Thursday, 30 December 2010
Tuesday, 28 December 2010
Old Crown Round - Saturday 8th January 2011
Hello, Happy New Year,
A quick 'heads up' for the traditional NAV4 OCR - something to look forward to in 2011 (it's not far away)
Some of us are planning our traditional New Year assault on The Old Crown Round on Saturday 8th January, and you are invited to join the fun. I know some of you will have plans to race the Open5 at Sutton Bank on Sunday 9th, but you may want to do both ? This social run is open to any race mates, friends and acquaintances, with a target time of 6-8 hours.
For those who don't already know, the OCR is a run/walk around the peaks of Carrock Fell, Great Cock Up, Skiddaw and Blencathra in the Northern Lakes. Conveniently, these peaks were named after the beers brewed by the Hesket New Market Brewery so it is both traditional and appropriate to sample such beverages post run. An evening meal in the pub is the norm.
The distance for the full OCR is around 20miles and I guess 6-7000' of ascent. Other routes and options are available, including 'just' Skiddaw and Blencathra if you want a slightly shorter, but easier day! If you follow the link above, please note we are not starting at the pub, as that adds too much distance. And other routes are available.
The start time will be 0900, so please meet just before then at Mosedale Bridge (GR356 320) parking is more plentiful and reliable there than the road head at Swinside. Don't forget your full winter 'running' and safety gear.
For those who want Saturday overnight accommodation, I have a small group booking for Hudscales Camping Barn which is conveniently situated just above the village, a short walk from the pub. The Barn has good mattresses, wood burner, kettle (fridge?) shower and bike storage, etc. Although very basic the barn is functional, dry and draft free - you just need to bring a warm sleeping bag, thin insulating mat, snack food, mug, spoon and breakfast, etc. A sense of humour and adventure is helps, too. The overnight cost is £10 payable to me, OnTheDay, Thanks.
It is a wee tradition that we have an MTB bike ride on Sunday, or retail therapy for some! Please let me know if you want to come along. faulknerjoe@hotmail.com
Happy New Year - have a good one!
A quick 'heads up' for the traditional NAV4 OCR - something to look forward to in 2011 (it's not far away)
Some of us are planning our traditional New Year assault on The Old Crown Round on Saturday 8th January, and you are invited to join the fun. I know some of you will have plans to race the Open5 at Sutton Bank on Sunday 9th, but you may want to do both ? This social run is open to any race mates, friends and acquaintances, with a target time of 6-8 hours.
For those who don't already know, the OCR is a run/walk around the peaks of Carrock Fell, Great Cock Up, Skiddaw and Blencathra in the Northern Lakes. Conveniently, these peaks were named after the beers brewed by the Hesket New Market Brewery so it is both traditional and appropriate to sample such beverages post run. An evening meal in the pub is the norm.
The distance for the full OCR is around 20miles and I guess 6-7000' of ascent. Other routes and options are available, including 'just' Skiddaw and Blencathra if you want a slightly shorter, but easier day! If you follow the link above, please note we are not starting at the pub, as that adds too much distance. And other routes are available.
The start time will be 0900, so please meet just before then at Mosedale Bridge (GR356 320) parking is more plentiful and reliable there than the road head at Swinside. Don't forget your full winter 'running' and safety gear.
For those who want Saturday overnight accommodation, I have a small group booking for Hudscales Camping Barn which is conveniently situated just above the village, a short walk from the pub. The Barn has good mattresses, wood burner, kettle (fridge?) shower and bike storage, etc. Although very basic the barn is functional, dry and draft free - you just need to bring a warm sleeping bag, thin insulating mat, snack food, mug, spoon and breakfast, etc. A sense of humour and adventure is helps, too. The overnight cost is £10 payable to me, OnTheDay, Thanks.
It is a wee tradition that we have an MTB bike ride on Sunday, or retail therapy for some! Please let me know if you want to come along. faulknerjoe@hotmail.com
Happy New Year - have a good one!
Monday, 20 December 2010
Le Tour de Helvellyn - A Classic
'Epic' .... 'Awesome' ... 'A Classic'
Le Tour was a great success because of the weather. A last minute dump of snow early on Saturday morning meant getting to the start was impossible for some, and made it difficult for us in several ways. But blue skies prevailed eventually.
First of all a very big 'Well Done' to all those attempted Le Tour, and an even bigger thanks to Stu, Martin, Pete, Dave, John and Linz for making it happen.
But any event can't happen without dedicated and committed athletes and I'm mightily impressed that so many made it to Askham and most completed what is a very tough route. No flat, fast 36 miles here ... you're doing well to maintain 3.5mph in those conditions on that route!
In the weeks before the events I received many emails pleading with me not to cancel it due to bad weather or a bad forecast, and I thank you for that support. For those who have done any of our events before will know that they are never easy and that we have reputation for tough, no nonsense, events.
The snow did make it tough for us; driving down to Glenridding was treacherous and we simply couldn't risk driving around to Thirlemere. Hence, we couldn't support runners at Swirls Car Park, so it was a long way without any drinks other than stream melt water. But everyone took this in their stride (no pun intended) and pushed on.
Sadly we had to withdraw a few people after 4:30pm but with temperatures plummeting to -10 degrees it would be reckless for anyone to venture over Boredale Hause and be committed to another 3-4 hours in such temperatures. Our intention was to offer the tail-enders support in Boredale, but we simply couldn't drive there. Thank you to all those who suffered the cut-off and accepted it with good grace. It's not our usual style but essential at this time of year. I'm sure you'll all get round the full route next year.
Next year? 'Yes' there will definitely be another one!. The feedback has been great, and the format proven to work. A quick analysis of the times reveals they were within our time frame and the biggest issue was a handful of runners starting a bit too late, although this was probably due to the snow delaying their arrival at the start.
Naturally, there are one or two glitches... apart from snow, a frozen sink and non-working main oven, but hey-ho ... The main problem was seemed to be those who didn't find Control no.5 as they were looking in the wrong place and hadn't checked the updated route card.
For 2011 we'll probably move the Greenside/Glenridding/Patterdale control to one central location. We also have more drinks (hot if we can) at Swirls Car Park and may be in Martindale, as well. So, keep an open mind about the exact control sites although the route won't change. The total number of places will be limited and entries will be available on-line via Sport-ident.
Thanks for coming and have fun. Our next event is the Tour de Kentmere, a mere Spring time sprint compared to the 'Le Classic', on Sunday 27th March. We also have a weekend Navigation course suitable for fell and mountain runners and adventure racers, and a 12hour MTB/Run event on Saturday. So, something for everyone with details on www.nav4.co.uk
See you at Bampton?
Joe
Le Tour was a great success because of the weather. A last minute dump of snow early on Saturday morning meant getting to the start was impossible for some, and made it difficult for us in several ways. But blue skies prevailed eventually.
First of all a very big 'Well Done' to all those attempted Le Tour, and an even bigger thanks to Stu, Martin, Pete, Dave, John and Linz for making it happen.
But any event can't happen without dedicated and committed athletes and I'm mightily impressed that so many made it to Askham and most completed what is a very tough route. No flat, fast 36 miles here ... you're doing well to maintain 3.5mph in those conditions on that route!
In the weeks before the events I received many emails pleading with me not to cancel it due to bad weather or a bad forecast, and I thank you for that support. For those who have done any of our events before will know that they are never easy and that we have reputation for tough, no nonsense, events.
The snow did make it tough for us; driving down to Glenridding was treacherous and we simply couldn't risk driving around to Thirlemere. Hence, we couldn't support runners at Swirls Car Park, so it was a long way without any drinks other than stream melt water. But everyone took this in their stride (no pun intended) and pushed on.
Sadly we had to withdraw a few people after 4:30pm but with temperatures plummeting to -10 degrees it would be reckless for anyone to venture over Boredale Hause and be committed to another 3-4 hours in such temperatures. Our intention was to offer the tail-enders support in Boredale, but we simply couldn't drive there. Thank you to all those who suffered the cut-off and accepted it with good grace. It's not our usual style but essential at this time of year. I'm sure you'll all get round the full route next year.
Next year? 'Yes' there will definitely be another one!. The feedback has been great, and the format proven to work. A quick analysis of the times reveals they were within our time frame and the biggest issue was a handful of runners starting a bit too late, although this was probably due to the snow delaying their arrival at the start.
Naturally, there are one or two glitches... apart from snow, a frozen sink and non-working main oven, but hey-ho ... The main problem was seemed to be those who didn't find Control no.5 as they were looking in the wrong place and hadn't checked the updated route card.
For 2011 we'll probably move the Greenside/Glenridding/Patterdale control to one central location. We also have more drinks (hot if we can) at Swirls Car Park and may be in Martindale, as well. So, keep an open mind about the exact control sites although the route won't change. The total number of places will be limited and entries will be available on-line via Sport-ident.
Thanks for coming and have fun. Our next event is the Tour de Kentmere, a mere Spring time sprint compared to the 'Le Classic', on Sunday 27th March. We also have a weekend Navigation course suitable for fell and mountain runners and adventure racers, and a 12hour MTB/Run event on Saturday. So, something for everyone with details on www.nav4.co.uk
See you at Bampton?
Joe
Thursday, 9 December 2010
Le Tour
The clue is in the title. Le tour de Helvellyn - en Hiver - is exactly what it says a tour around Helvellyn in Winter.
We do not intend to cancel or postpone Le Tour just because the weather is bad, or there is now on the ground. Plan B; if underfoot conditions are 'slow' we will shorten the route by running as far as Greenside, then retracing the route back. This will give a good tough run, and we have had very good feedback that we are doing the right thing. Our entrants want to run!
If you are not confident as to looking after yourself in the prevailing conditions, please do not start. Also, please think twice as to why you entered in the first place!
If this sounds harsh, or abrupt, I apologise but this is not an event for softees!
See you at Askham,
Joe
We do not intend to cancel or postpone Le Tour just because the weather is bad, or there is now on the ground. Plan B; if underfoot conditions are 'slow' we will shorten the route by running as far as Greenside, then retracing the route back. This will give a good tough run, and we have had very good feedback that we are doing the right thing. Our entrants want to run!
If you are not confident as to looking after yourself in the prevailing conditions, please do not start. Also, please think twice as to why you entered in the first place!
If this sounds harsh, or abrupt, I apologise but this is not an event for softees!
See you at Askham,
Joe
Wednesday, 17 November 2010
The Bampton Bash - More Planning and Scheming
It's a busy time here at the NAV4 'office', with long evenings spent shaping a number of adventures for 2011. My own training is going steadily, and I've enjoyed helping at the recent Open5 at Slaidburn and Ian Mulvey's excellent Whinlatter Duathlon. Next up for me is the Kielder Duathlon, where I get to ride and run Kielder's remote and deserted trails.
Having expressed surprise that I wasn't racing at Slaidburn, some people have asked me I might be racing over the winter and into 2011. It's fair to say that the NAV4 team could be regarded as in a 'period of regeneration' in readiness for Terrex 2012. There is much to do; it's important to realise personal goals as well as team ones, and not forget why we do certain things. Personally, I will be racing The Lakes 100 and The Montane 100 in 2011; co-ordinating the HeB2B Adventure will also be a big challenge. No doubt the NAV4 Team will build on their strengths and consider their weaknesses in readiness for future events, whatever they might be.
The Bampton Bash
The Tour de Helvellyn has attracted a healthy number of entrants and proves that a good course and event will always be popular. The Bampton Bash may prove to do the same. 'The Bash' is a weekend social/training event based at Bampton and will provide something for everyone, whether expert, intermediate or beginner. There are three elements to it; 1) Our NAV4 weekend navigation course. 2) Our NAV4/12hr MTB/Run O-Event and 3) The Tour de Kentmere Trail Run. The NAV4/12 is, quite simply, a 12hour event where you bike and run, for 12 hours; no gimmicks, no surprises ... (unless you get lost!) you plan your route for the whole day including the number of times you 'transition' and where. Yes, some will be in the dark.
Amazing simple - simply adventurous. You and the area deserve each other. Ooh.
Beginners or intermediate racers, and even some experts, will find our navigation course most attractive and beneficial. The more competent endurance racers will relish our new NAV4/12 12hour event unique (Saturday 26/3 noon-midnight? tbc) Trail runners will enjoy a 24mile-ish run to Kentmere and back on Sunday morning. Those on our weekend course won't be able to fit in the other two elements, although hardcore racers could tackle the NAV4/12 and Tour de Kentmere, back-to-back. There will be camping at Bampton for everyone, and so this is an ideal basecamp for you, your friends and team mates, whatever you all choose to do.
More details of the Tour and NAV4/12 very soon, but get this date into your diary now as it will be a great weekend.
Having expressed surprise that I wasn't racing at Slaidburn, some people have asked me I might be racing over the winter and into 2011. It's fair to say that the NAV4 team could be regarded as in a 'period of regeneration' in readiness for Terrex 2012. There is much to do; it's important to realise personal goals as well as team ones, and not forget why we do certain things. Personally, I will be racing The Lakes 100 and The Montane 100 in 2011; co-ordinating the HeB2B Adventure will also be a big challenge. No doubt the NAV4 Team will build on their strengths and consider their weaknesses in readiness for future events, whatever they might be.
The Bampton Bash
The Tour de Helvellyn has attracted a healthy number of entrants and proves that a good course and event will always be popular. The Bampton Bash may prove to do the same. 'The Bash' is a weekend social/training event based at Bampton and will provide something for everyone, whether expert, intermediate or beginner. There are three elements to it; 1) Our NAV4 weekend navigation course. 2) Our NAV4/12hr MTB/Run O-Event and 3) The Tour de Kentmere Trail Run. The NAV4/12 is, quite simply, a 12hour event where you bike and run, for 12 hours; no gimmicks, no surprises ... (unless you get lost!) you plan your route for the whole day including the number of times you 'transition' and where. Yes, some will be in the dark.
Amazing simple - simply adventurous. You and the area deserve each other. Ooh.
Beginners or intermediate racers, and even some experts, will find our navigation course most attractive and beneficial. The more competent endurance racers will relish our new NAV4/12 12hour event unique (Saturday 26/3 noon-midnight? tbc) Trail runners will enjoy a 24mile-ish run to Kentmere and back on Sunday morning. Those on our weekend course won't be able to fit in the other two elements, although hardcore racers could tackle the NAV4/12 and Tour de Kentmere, back-to-back. There will be camping at Bampton for everyone, and so this is an ideal basecamp for you, your friends and team mates, whatever you all choose to do.
More details of the Tour and NAV4/12 very soon, but get this date into your diary now as it will be a great weekend.
Saturday, 6 November 2010
Well Done Angela and Sarah
One week on and we are still hearing stories from the OMM. A big 'Well Done' to Angela and Sarah on being first females in the Long Score. It's really pleasing to hear of their success after they missed out at the LAMM with a Day Two injury. They have done some hard training miles since coming on a NAV4 course a few years ago, as well as completing our GL3D events (especially 2008 - the tough one!) It's a shame they live in the Deep South as Le Tour would suit them very well. Le Tour de Helvellyn has received a great deal of interest, surely due to the route and date making a simple adventure very appealing. 'A classic in the making' ... apparently!
Another NAV4 athlete deserving a mention is Marcus Scotney (one of our NAV4 tutors) who will be up early tomorrow, sorting his porridge and bacon butty, before running 100km for Team GB in Gibraltar. Hopefully, he will have eaten 'a few pies' or the equivalent today. Have a good run Marcus ... run strong and steady. I don't need to tell him that 'the trick is to be at the front at the end, not the beginning.'
Personally, I'll be off to Slaidburn tonight to help with tomorrow's Open5. HeB2B athlete Emma VDG is the planner and I spent a few years playing around that patch many years ago, and it will be great in Autumnal sunshine. There is a huge start list with some interesting pairings and solos, and it will be good to catch up with some friends and team mates. My own coughing and spluttering is finally going so maybe I will have a wee run out myself. Maybe....
Another NAV4 athlete deserving a mention is Marcus Scotney (one of our NAV4 tutors) who will be up early tomorrow, sorting his porridge and bacon butty, before running 100km for Team GB in Gibraltar. Hopefully, he will have eaten 'a few pies' or the equivalent today. Have a good run Marcus ... run strong and steady. I don't need to tell him that 'the trick is to be at the front at the end, not the beginning.'
Personally, I'll be off to Slaidburn tonight to help with tomorrow's Open5. HeB2B athlete Emma VDG is the planner and I spent a few years playing around that patch many years ago, and it will be great in Autumnal sunshine. There is a huge start list with some interesting pairings and solos, and it will be good to catch up with some friends and team mates. My own coughing and spluttering is finally going so maybe I will have a wee run out myself. Maybe....
Saturday, 23 October 2010
New Multi-sport Sport
Today has seen a new combination of sports into a Multi-sport day. Starting with extreme porridge making (porridge cooked on top of the wood-burner) whilst watching TV in search of the Rat Race and Deerstalker on Country Tracks, the day has progresses relatively profitable. Logs chopped, tea drunk, hoovering, a visit by Spike (in person! eek) and some consequent website and blog blah, blah. All this was accomplished with a raging sore throat and head-cold.
The positive news is that our Tour de Helvellyn is attracting a lot of interest and promises to be an interesting day out for everyone. The Tour is intended as good winters's training run; it's not a formal race but an opportunity for a long day out on your feet in preparation for next year's adventures. Naturally the weather could be poor, but the route should be do-able in most conditions, and we do have a Plan B, if Sticks Pass is impassable. I only wish I was able to do it myself, instead of tied up with supporting.
On the personal performance side, I am just about re-covered from the pains of last week's Kielder Marathon. Having not run for weeks, and with just a handful of training runs and events this year it required a certain amount of determination to get to the finish. This race was a physical challenge in contrast to the mental challenge of Terrex. 4:28 is now a 'pw' for a marathon, so I have something to aim for next year. It also showed up how little running I have done in recent years. The course is a good one; undulating and always interesting, and with the winning time being 2:30 you can expect a sizeable chunk to be added to your normal road marathon time. As it was the inaugural event I trust Steve Cram has learnt a thing or two for 2011, with the biggest issue being drop the road race razzamatazz and mentality and get in tune with off-road running. Whether this was under UKA regs I don't know but I find it very offensive running through a sea of three-quarters full drinks bottles in such a remote and beautiful location. Especially, when they mainly toxic sports drinks from a sponsor. Ok, so they will all be picked up, but by whom and what what cost? Perhaps I should stopped being grumpy - No doubt the event will be over subscribed next year. I certainly be back, as I'm a regular visitor to Kielder with it's deserted trails and tranquility. I'll be back there very soon to help with the Kielder Duathlon, riding the trails and getting a training run in.
Joe
The positive news is that our Tour de Helvellyn is attracting a lot of interest and promises to be an interesting day out for everyone. The Tour is intended as good winters's training run; it's not a formal race but an opportunity for a long day out on your feet in preparation for next year's adventures. Naturally the weather could be poor, but the route should be do-able in most conditions, and we do have a Plan B, if Sticks Pass is impassable. I only wish I was able to do it myself, instead of tied up with supporting.
On the personal performance side, I am just about re-covered from the pains of last week's Kielder Marathon. Having not run for weeks, and with just a handful of training runs and events this year it required a certain amount of determination to get to the finish. This race was a physical challenge in contrast to the mental challenge of Terrex. 4:28 is now a 'pw' for a marathon, so I have something to aim for next year. It also showed up how little running I have done in recent years. The course is a good one; undulating and always interesting, and with the winning time being 2:30 you can expect a sizeable chunk to be added to your normal road marathon time. As it was the inaugural event I trust Steve Cram has learnt a thing or two for 2011, with the biggest issue being drop the road race razzamatazz and mentality and get in tune with off-road running. Whether this was under UKA regs I don't know but I find it very offensive running through a sea of three-quarters full drinks bottles in such a remote and beautiful location. Especially, when they mainly toxic sports drinks from a sponsor. Ok, so they will all be picked up, but by whom and what what cost? Perhaps I should stopped being grumpy - No doubt the event will be over subscribed next year. I certainly be back, as I'm a regular visitor to Kielder with it's deserted trails and tranquility. I'll be back there very soon to help with the Kielder Duathlon, riding the trails and getting a training run in.
Joe
Monday, 27 September 2010
Post Race Blues
To be perfectly honest, there has been no posts for a very long time, due to a very bad dose of 'Post Race Blues.'
There was nothing wrong with Terrex; brilliant route, interesting race, some great moments and a really big challenge, but strangely some massively BIG post race Blues! Hey-ho...
Moving on, since Terrex, I have enjoyed a great day out in The Lakeland Mountain Trail, and an interesting and rather busy weekend up in Scotland, including supporting AndyM in the C2C. This weekend just passed was even better - watching club mates and friends run at The Two Breweries Race - and enjoying the fine Broughton Ales from the race sponsor and host. The race actually finishes at the brewery loading bay, and the free beers fitted me better and were more tasty than my Terrex T-shirt.
Joe
There was nothing wrong with Terrex; brilliant route, interesting race, some great moments and a really big challenge, but strangely some massively BIG post race Blues! Hey-ho...
Moving on, since Terrex, I have enjoyed a great day out in The Lakeland Mountain Trail, and an interesting and rather busy weekend up in Scotland, including supporting AndyM in the C2C. This weekend just passed was even better - watching club mates and friends run at The Two Breweries Race - and enjoying the fine Broughton Ales from the race sponsor and host. The race actually finishes at the brewery loading bay, and the free beers fitted me better and were more tasty than my Terrex T-shirt.
Joe
Thursday, 12 August 2010
Busy, busy... Terrex To HeB2B Adventure
It's been a busy few weeks at NAV4 HQ, with lots to do after The HeB2B and preparation for the Terrex race coming up in a few weeks time. All things are going well; excellent feedback from B2B and lots of interest for next year, including some people wanting to know when entries will open!
Firstly, Terrex needs to be conquered. Our team has enjoyed some great training days, and I'm feeling well sussed for the race, especially given my past few months activity and the fact that we will be racing on home turf. Terrex has great potential to be an amazing race, and it will be interest to see what format and strategies are required. Some are assuming we are not paddling on the sea, which I hope is true, as sea paddling is a bit of a lottery given the sea and weather conditions, and to be blunt, is out of the scope of many racers. Furthermore, there is plenty of water to paddling here within Cumbria.
So, The 2011 HeB2B Adventure will go onto the back-burner for a short while, but before it does this is the outline so far:
The HeB2B will be in May next year; Monday 30th May - Friday 3rd June is the intended date. The journey will run from the island of Barra to The Butt of Lewis, hence the B2B. It is a five day 'stage' race, stopping overnight.
There will be opportunities for Solos, Pairs/Trios and Teams of Four. Solos will be offered logistical support in the form of a baggage van. Places will be very limited and only the really strong and competent will find the route achievable. Start training now, don't under estimate what is required to paddle in The Hebrides.
A Pairs category has been established for a few years, and the new Trio will continue. 'Three Friends in a Car' was the strap line and it worked this year. It is also the cheapest and easiest way to do 'The HeB2B'.
Teams of Four will also continue and require the full range of skills and talents that a Heb journery requires.
However... (Yep, there is a 'but' coming) .... there will be no kayaking in 2011. This is because we need to focus on getting the B2B established and up and running, in a run/bike/swim format. Sea kayaking is a high skill based discipline, and providing the relevant safety cover is very expensive (more than half of the income budget) hence we can not afford to do so until participant numbers reach a certain level. It is my intention to re-introduce Kayaking in 2012, so aim high and long term and start training, and get your certificate in readiness. Any ardent Kayakers who are currently jumping up and down are invited step forward at this point and help bring paddling back in 2012.
In terms of other stuff, we will be resourcing some good overnight venues, with on-site camping. We are also reviewing the length of each competition day in terms of time, and allowing you to enjoy some evening 'down-time'. Consequently, the route plan / logistics will be slightly easier than in past years, although just as much of a challenge.... and even more fun. A quality event is what we are aiming for, with a small friendly atmosphere. Total entrant places will be around 50 people.
Actively racing Monday - Friday gives participants Saturday and Sunday on each weekend to travel to and from the islands. All in all, we want you to enjoy your holiday just as much as your race.
Finally, no adventure like this can happy without YOU - either as a entrant or supporter. Talk to your friends, get it in your diary now. Hebridean Racing is the Original UK Multi-Sport Race. Don't miss out. Further details will follow on our www.nav4.co.uk website in due course.
That's it, more soon, once I've finished Terrex, Good luck to all those racing
Joe
Firstly, Terrex needs to be conquered. Our team has enjoyed some great training days, and I'm feeling well sussed for the race, especially given my past few months activity and the fact that we will be racing on home turf. Terrex has great potential to be an amazing race, and it will be interest to see what format and strategies are required. Some are assuming we are not paddling on the sea, which I hope is true, as sea paddling is a bit of a lottery given the sea and weather conditions, and to be blunt, is out of the scope of many racers. Furthermore, there is plenty of water to paddling here within Cumbria.
So, The 2011 HeB2B Adventure will go onto the back-burner for a short while, but before it does this is the outline so far:
The HeB2B will be in May next year; Monday 30th May - Friday 3rd June is the intended date. The journey will run from the island of Barra to The Butt of Lewis, hence the B2B. It is a five day 'stage' race, stopping overnight.
There will be opportunities for Solos, Pairs/Trios and Teams of Four. Solos will be offered logistical support in the form of a baggage van. Places will be very limited and only the really strong and competent will find the route achievable. Start training now, don't under estimate what is required to paddle in The Hebrides.
A Pairs category has been established for a few years, and the new Trio will continue. 'Three Friends in a Car' was the strap line and it worked this year. It is also the cheapest and easiest way to do 'The HeB2B'.
Teams of Four will also continue and require the full range of skills and talents that a Heb journery requires.
However... (Yep, there is a 'but' coming) .... there will be no kayaking in 2011. This is because we need to focus on getting the B2B established and up and running, in a run/bike/swim format. Sea kayaking is a high skill based discipline, and providing the relevant safety cover is very expensive (more than half of the income budget) hence we can not afford to do so until participant numbers reach a certain level. It is my intention to re-introduce Kayaking in 2012, so aim high and long term and start training, and get your certificate in readiness. Any ardent Kayakers who are currently jumping up and down are invited step forward at this point and help bring paddling back in 2012.
In terms of other stuff, we will be resourcing some good overnight venues, with on-site camping. We are also reviewing the length of each competition day in terms of time, and allowing you to enjoy some evening 'down-time'. Consequently, the route plan / logistics will be slightly easier than in past years, although just as much of a challenge.... and even more fun. A quality event is what we are aiming for, with a small friendly atmosphere. Total entrant places will be around 50 people.
Actively racing Monday - Friday gives participants Saturday and Sunday on each weekend to travel to and from the islands. All in all, we want you to enjoy your holiday just as much as your race.
Finally, no adventure like this can happy without YOU - either as a entrant or supporter. Talk to your friends, get it in your diary now. Hebridean Racing is the Original UK Multi-Sport Race. Don't miss out. Further details will follow on our www.nav4.co.uk website in due course.
That's it, more soon, once I've finished Terrex, Good luck to all those racing
Joe
Monday, 19 July 2010
HeB2B - What a Success - Part Two
Friday was to be the final day and predominatly featured a dash for The Butt of Lewis on road bikes, but not before some other 'fun and games'. Friday's first summit was the high point on West Lewis - Mealaisbhal - which at 574m and rising straight from the Atlantic, gives great views of St.Kilda, and back towards the high hills of Harris, and yesterday's routes. A rough MTB track gives access to a glen valley bisecting these hills and a route through to Loch Tamnabhaigh. The alternative was to road bike around the coastal road, but you truely are starting from sea level, so 574 metres feels like a lot more.
A second 'High Point' of the day was Callanish Standing Stones, and coffee at the visitor centre. Why? well you don't want to come here and miss out on what is the northern version of Stonehenge, which Wilko had raced past two years ago without noticing. Callanish is also situated on a penisula which juts out into Loch Rog An Ear and is where the kayakers had exited the water after a relatively calm paddle, and with the sun shining brightly.
From here, the northern reaches of Lewis are a vast rough wilderness and in previous year's I have biked and 'run' across sections of this. However, the much more sensible option is to blast up the main coastal road, a gentle undulating roller coaster, most usually with a tail wind. This 35 mile ride put big grins on all faces and I was very pleased to, more or less, greet everyone at The But as we finished within an hour or so of each other.
That's it. B2B over - it worked, just! All which remained was a night out in Stornoway at the new cury house for those on the early Saturday ferry, or an impromptu party at The Cross Inn, just south of The Butt, thanks to Emma and her Smart phone and parents.
Thank you to everyone who came and made it a success; there were some lessons learned, but the greatest is that we can all have fun and adventure without too much organisation. Less is definitely More, so what about next year? The weather's good in May, apparently.
Joe
A second 'High Point' of the day was Callanish Standing Stones, and coffee at the visitor centre. Why? well you don't want to come here and miss out on what is the northern version of Stonehenge, which Wilko had raced past two years ago without noticing. Callanish is also situated on a penisula which juts out into Loch Rog An Ear and is where the kayakers had exited the water after a relatively calm paddle, and with the sun shining brightly.
From here, the northern reaches of Lewis are a vast rough wilderness and in previous year's I have biked and 'run' across sections of this. However, the much more sensible option is to blast up the main coastal road, a gentle undulating roller coaster, most usually with a tail wind. This 35 mile ride put big grins on all faces and I was very pleased to, more or less, greet everyone at The But as we finished within an hour or so of each other.
That's it. B2B over - it worked, just! All which remained was a night out in Stornoway at the new cury house for those on the early Saturday ferry, or an impromptu party at The Cross Inn, just south of The Butt, thanks to Emma and her Smart phone and parents.
Thank you to everyone who came and made it a success; there were some lessons learned, but the greatest is that we can all have fun and adventure without too much organisation. Less is definitely More, so what about next year? The weather's good in May, apparently.
Joe
Friday, 16 July 2010
HeB2B - What a success!
I never thought I'd have writer's block, or is it that I don't know where to start?
HeB2B, the 'unofficial' Heb planned in the spirit of Tilman on the back of an envelope (two cereal boxes actually) was a great success. Twenty odd (!) people biked and ran from one end of the Hebrides to the other, ascending all or most of the highest peaks on each island. Many also biked the classic MTB loops of Harris, and added their own little adventures, such as swimming Loch Langabhat in the middle of Lewis. Simple Adventure. Not a marshall or timekeeper in sight - it worked.
The weather was stormy, especially at the start of the week with the Oban-Barra ferry disrupted so that some could not get there for the 'Prologue'; a gentle spin around Barra with the ascents of the highest points on Barra and Vatersay. It was windy but dry with fair views, but the rain and wind came in force on Tuesday as we blasted north over The Uists and Benbecula. Quite rightly some 'optional' summits were missed out by some, in a long day of road biking and hill running. Personally, I really enjoyed a ten hour day with a tail wind pushing me north at 15-20mph, with the time split 50/50% on biking/hill running.
The kayakers had been out on Saturday, Sunday and Tuesday as the wind built to storm force. Another wild camp on the Machair of Berneray was followed by a drier but still winding day for the crossing of the Sound of Harris, and few more hills, and the south Harris loop. Skoon Art Cafe featured very well as a popular 'optional summit.'
Wednesday was the day we had Blue Peter's Helen Skelton join us for a Bike/run/paddle day. Helen did very well on a hired hybrid bike as we cycled the hill over to Tarbet and upto Clisham car park. An ascent of Clisham followed (2000+ feet of bog, rock and scree) and again I was impressed with her fitness and spirit. Unfortunately, filming does absorb a lot of time so we weren't able to 'run' all the way through the Lewis wilderness if we were to get the paddling leg done on Loch Roag Beag. The wind was still very strong alhough from the south, but a tail wind can be tricky in a sea kayak and they had to round the headland onto the beach. I know from the look on the faces and the general buzz on the beach that it had been a tough paddle. Many thanks are due to Tom as 'lead paddler' for making this happen, and to Alex and Colin, also. Helen's day had been filmed as part of the Country Tracks programme and it will be interesting to see how it is appears on the TV.
Meanwhile, Euan had quietly sussed out and swam Loch Langhabat, therefore straightlining the wilderness. He was generously assisted by Claire, who swam both ways in order to test the water before biking back out and around to the north. He arrived after his (relatively short) run looking well satisfied. It think this is simply brilliant and in the true spirit of HeB adventure; watch out for it next year.
Over the next few hours more athletes arrived including those who had 'Hike-a-Biked' through the Wilderness, rather than the 50+ mile road ride around, including AndyM who never misses any options out. (But he did look a bit pooped for a while) It had been a great day; tough weather, rough conditions underfoot, interesting stuff with Helen and Gareth from the BBC, but people had all risen to the challenge and proved that the spirit of adventure is alive and kicking (no pun intended)
More soon....
Joe
HeB2B, the 'unofficial' Heb planned in the spirit of Tilman on the back of an envelope (two cereal boxes actually) was a great success. Twenty odd (!) people biked and ran from one end of the Hebrides to the other, ascending all or most of the highest peaks on each island. Many also biked the classic MTB loops of Harris, and added their own little adventures, such as swimming Loch Langabhat in the middle of Lewis. Simple Adventure. Not a marshall or timekeeper in sight - it worked.
The weather was stormy, especially at the start of the week with the Oban-Barra ferry disrupted so that some could not get there for the 'Prologue'; a gentle spin around Barra with the ascents of the highest points on Barra and Vatersay. It was windy but dry with fair views, but the rain and wind came in force on Tuesday as we blasted north over The Uists and Benbecula. Quite rightly some 'optional' summits were missed out by some, in a long day of road biking and hill running. Personally, I really enjoyed a ten hour day with a tail wind pushing me north at 15-20mph, with the time split 50/50% on biking/hill running.
The kayakers had been out on Saturday, Sunday and Tuesday as the wind built to storm force. Another wild camp on the Machair of Berneray was followed by a drier but still winding day for the crossing of the Sound of Harris, and few more hills, and the south Harris loop. Skoon Art Cafe featured very well as a popular 'optional summit.'
Wednesday was the day we had Blue Peter's Helen Skelton join us for a Bike/run/paddle day. Helen did very well on a hired hybrid bike as we cycled the hill over to Tarbet and upto Clisham car park. An ascent of Clisham followed (2000+ feet of bog, rock and scree) and again I was impressed with her fitness and spirit. Unfortunately, filming does absorb a lot of time so we weren't able to 'run' all the way through the Lewis wilderness if we were to get the paddling leg done on Loch Roag Beag. The wind was still very strong alhough from the south, but a tail wind can be tricky in a sea kayak and they had to round the headland onto the beach. I know from the look on the faces and the general buzz on the beach that it had been a tough paddle. Many thanks are due to Tom as 'lead paddler' for making this happen, and to Alex and Colin, also. Helen's day had been filmed as part of the Country Tracks programme and it will be interesting to see how it is appears on the TV.
Meanwhile, Euan had quietly sussed out and swam Loch Langhabat, therefore straightlining the wilderness. He was generously assisted by Claire, who swam both ways in order to test the water before biking back out and around to the north. He arrived after his (relatively short) run looking well satisfied. It think this is simply brilliant and in the true spirit of HeB adventure; watch out for it next year.
Over the next few hours more athletes arrived including those who had 'Hike-a-Biked' through the Wilderness, rather than the 50+ mile road ride around, including AndyM who never misses any options out. (But he did look a bit pooped for a while) It had been a great day; tough weather, rough conditions underfoot, interesting stuff with Helen and Gareth from the BBC, but people had all risen to the challenge and proved that the spirit of adventure is alive and kicking (no pun intended)
More soon....
Joe
Thursday, 1 July 2010
Last Minute Stuff
Off to The Hebrides tomorrow for HeB2B. It's going to be fun, and a bit of an adventure .... a journey, no less!
B2B has 20-30 people arriving on a remote Hebridean island, many of which haven't been there before. The Hebrides are a remote place; five hours ferry ride from Oban, and at least a days drive from 'the UK'. But it is also a fabulous place, wild and inspiring, weather ever changing and with welcoming and embracing community of people.
It is going to be an adventure of the purest kind; shared objective, realistic outcome, good companionship. I hope so, I know so.
Let's have some fun. Don't worry ... be happy.
B2B has 20-30 people arriving on a remote Hebridean island, many of which haven't been there before. The Hebrides are a remote place; five hours ferry ride from Oban, and at least a days drive from 'the UK'. But it is also a fabulous place, wild and inspiring, weather ever changing and with welcoming and embracing community of people.
It is going to be an adventure of the purest kind; shared objective, realistic outcome, good companionship. I hope so, I know so.
Let's have some fun. Don't worry ... be happy.
Wednesday, 23 June 2010
Oops - Wrong grid reference
Well..... it would be a Heb adventure without at least one dodgy grid reference. Luckily, it's obvious that the camping on Eriskay isn't at 783 713, but 783 113. Thanks to Colin for pointing this out!
Two other quick updates - Paddling and 'After Party'
If you are bringing a boat and hoping to paddle at least some part of the week, then I have, hopefully put you in touch with each other so you can liase over 'hopes and fears.... gear and beers' or whatever. Or just turn up and join in!
'After Party' - even if it's just beers in a bar or on a beach, there is quite a bit of interest in this so I'll be research a camp/eat/drink option somewhere up near the Butt.
Any suggestions?
Two other quick updates - Paddling and 'After Party'
If you are bringing a boat and hoping to paddle at least some part of the week, then I have, hopefully put you in touch with each other so you can liase over 'hopes and fears.... gear and beers' or whatever. Or just turn up and join in!
'After Party' - even if it's just beers in a bar or on a beach, there is quite a bit of interest in this so I'll be research a camp/eat/drink option somewhere up near the Butt.
Any suggestions?
Monday, 21 June 2010
HeB2B Adventure - Route Info Out Now
Just ten days to go....!
I've just emailed the route info to all those confirmed on my list as intending to come along. If you have missed out then, please let me know asap.
If you've only just found out about this adventure then it is not too late to come along. A bike and a pair of hill legs is all you need, but a friend or two might be helpful.
See you on Ersikay - let the adventure begin.
I've just emailed the route info to all those confirmed on my list as intending to come along. If you have missed out then, please let me know asap.
If you've only just found out about this adventure then it is not too late to come along. A bike and a pair of hill legs is all you need, but a friend or two might be helpful.
See you on Ersikay - let the adventure begin.
Thursday, 17 June 2010
We Won - LAMM 2010...!
'Sometimes you have to blow your own trumpet!' someone said to me yesterday
Wilko and I finished as first 'mixed pair' in the Score class, so I won my first prize for many years. Prizes don't mean much, but seventh overall in such an event means we did very well.
More importantly, I really relished being back in a 'simple' Mountain Marathon, where good solid route choice and navigation through rugged mountain scenery gives a great sense of reward.
Well Done Wilko - she'd be the first to admit she's not at her fittest after a winter of injury and rest - but that's no excuse and irrelevant. We did well because we went steadily in the right direction, didn't get lost (well... a moments magnetic confusion on Beinn Bhuidhe maybe) and weren't too late back and incuring large penalties. We did have a bit of a 'flat' Saturday and thought we'd made the wrong route strategy choice, but having pushed hard to make Saturday's finish on time it was all to play for on Sunday.
'Endurance Saturday - Speed Sunday' remarked 'Wilks', as we found some soggy tussocks for her to relish followed by some tricky navigation in complex claggy ground, which played to our strengths. But we did have to run the last five km to limit penalties to just three minutes lateness. I was duly honoured and humbled to get a beer handed to me by Miriam Rosen as we finished and it made 'Wilfs' chilli one of the best ever. Thank you Wilko.
Congratulations to Anthony Emmett and Helen Jackson on an impressive Mixed Pair win in the Elite, proving they really can mix it with the top mountain runners. Bad luck to Team Haglofs ... well done Lewis for completing the Elite despite a nasty gash to his shin sustained on Saturday and to Angus and Francis of NFR for their third place in the Elite. And they never looked tired or stressed at all.
Now, whose entered the LDMT?
Wilko and I finished as first 'mixed pair' in the Score class, so I won my first prize for many years. Prizes don't mean much, but seventh overall in such an event means we did very well.
More importantly, I really relished being back in a 'simple' Mountain Marathon, where good solid route choice and navigation through rugged mountain scenery gives a great sense of reward.
Well Done Wilko - she'd be the first to admit she's not at her fittest after a winter of injury and rest - but that's no excuse and irrelevant. We did well because we went steadily in the right direction, didn't get lost (well... a moments magnetic confusion on Beinn Bhuidhe maybe) and weren't too late back and incuring large penalties. We did have a bit of a 'flat' Saturday and thought we'd made the wrong route strategy choice, but having pushed hard to make Saturday's finish on time it was all to play for on Sunday.
'Endurance Saturday - Speed Sunday' remarked 'Wilks', as we found some soggy tussocks for her to relish followed by some tricky navigation in complex claggy ground, which played to our strengths. But we did have to run the last five km to limit penalties to just three minutes lateness. I was duly honoured and humbled to get a beer handed to me by Miriam Rosen as we finished and it made 'Wilfs' chilli one of the best ever. Thank you Wilko.
Congratulations to Anthony Emmett and Helen Jackson on an impressive Mixed Pair win in the Elite, proving they really can mix it with the top mountain runners. Bad luck to Team Haglofs ... well done Lewis for completing the Elite despite a nasty gash to his shin sustained on Saturday and to Angus and Francis of NFR for their third place in the Elite. And they never looked tired or stressed at all.
Now, whose entered the LDMT?
Wednesday, 26 May 2010
HeB2B Route Outline + Cycle Shirts
The Race is ON .... for Cycle Shirts!
So much to do... but I've done a lot already! Overnight locations are sorted and the next pressing need is the design and ordering of cycle shirts. www.cyclejersey.com is the company we will be using. We have ideas, colours and a designer working on it now, so I need your firm orders and payment asap. Trust me it will be good!
Full Route details will be out in mid-June. Game ON!
So much to do... but I've done a lot already! Overnight locations are sorted and the next pressing need is the design and ordering of cycle shirts. www.cyclejersey.com is the company we will be using. We have ideas, colours and a designer working on it now, so I need your firm orders and payment asap. Trust me it will be good!
Full Route details will be out in mid-June. Game ON!
Friday, 7 May 2010
Dockray-Hartside Fell Race Results - 2010
Dockray-Hartside Fell Race
(Race report on previous blog posting, below)
1 Chris Waters Ambleside 51.45
2 Chris Newman Wharfedale 52.32
3 Kim Collinson Eden Runners 52.54
4 Ian Davies Keswick 55.09
5 Chris Knowles CFR M40 55.18
6 Liam Horsfall 55.29
7 Daniel Nute Kendal 60.29
8 Adam Logan Ambleside 60.44
9 Dave Prossser Keswick M40 61.12
10 Chris Harling 61.36
11 Nigel Thomas Helm Hill M40 61.55
12 Toby Harling Border 62.33
13 Carlos Naylor Eden Runners 62.36
14 Keith Hill Keswick M41 62.47
15 Gavin Thomas Kendal M45 63.55
16 Peter Hague Cairngorm 63.55
17 Karen Bridge Eden Runners 64.46
18 Andy Thompson Eden Runners 66.36
19 Dave Tait DPFR V60 66.37
20 Fraser Livesey Howgill 66.42
21 Ian Horne Eden Runners 67.39
22 Richard Ellwood 66.59
23 Alex Kirby Arragons Tri 67.57
24 David Hobson 67.57
25 Peter Bailey 67.58
26 John Horne Keswick 68.03
27 Shaun Hardisty Eden Runners 68.25
28 Anja Phoenix Eden Runners 70.24
29 Anne Wilson Eden Runners 71.17
30 David Harrison` Keswick M60 71.17
31 Simon Veitch M40 73.16
32 Derek Queenan 74.51
33 Steve Howe Old Boy 74.53
34 Patric Gilchrist Keswick M63 77.17
35 Gill Douglas Eden Runners 84.28
36 David Brooks Blackpool, Wyre, Flyde 84.39
37 Gary Hadwin Keswick 85.51
38 Gary Dixon Keswick 85.51
39 Ian Rooke Kendal 92.38
40 Jane Hornsby 93.51
(Race report on previous blog posting, below)
1 Chris Waters Ambleside 51.45
2 Chris Newman Wharfedale 52.32
3 Kim Collinson Eden Runners 52.54
4 Ian Davies Keswick 55.09
5 Chris Knowles CFR M40 55.18
6 Liam Horsfall 55.29
7 Daniel Nute Kendal 60.29
8 Adam Logan Ambleside 60.44
9 Dave Prossser Keswick M40 61.12
10 Chris Harling 61.36
11 Nigel Thomas Helm Hill M40 61.55
12 Toby Harling Border 62.33
13 Carlos Naylor Eden Runners 62.36
14 Keith Hill Keswick M41 62.47
15 Gavin Thomas Kendal M45 63.55
16 Peter Hague Cairngorm 63.55
17 Karen Bridge Eden Runners 64.46
18 Andy Thompson Eden Runners 66.36
19 Dave Tait DPFR V60 66.37
20 Fraser Livesey Howgill 66.42
21 Ian Horne Eden Runners 67.39
22 Richard Ellwood 66.59
23 Alex Kirby Arragons Tri 67.57
24 David Hobson 67.57
25 Peter Bailey 67.58
26 John Horne Keswick 68.03
27 Shaun Hardisty Eden Runners 68.25
28 Anja Phoenix Eden Runners 70.24
29 Anne Wilson Eden Runners 71.17
30 David Harrison` Keswick M60 71.17
31 Simon Veitch M40 73.16
32 Derek Queenan 74.51
33 Steve Howe Old Boy 74.53
34 Patric Gilchrist Keswick M63 77.17
35 Gill Douglas Eden Runners 84.28
36 David Brooks Blackpool, Wyre, Flyde 84.39
37 Gary Hadwin Keswick 85.51
38 Gary Dixon Keswick 85.51
39 Ian Rooke Kendal 92.38
40 Jane Hornsby 93.51
Dockray-Hartside Fell Race
We don’t make a huge song and dance about stuff at Dockray, but thanks to you all for running. I think everyone had fun, and I thank you for enjoying your race.
There was some impressive performances amongst you, especially the more ‘mature runners.’ Age is just a number, which we don’t dwell on, and having no prizes age is irrelevant, but Dave Tait from DPFR had a storming run as did Patric Gilchrist in the older age group. There was a great mix of people form all over the country; Dave from DPFR and Peter Hague from the Cairngorm Club. Local lass Karen Bridge-Heaviside did not get lost, despite her fears, impending middle-age and post-London recovery, and lack of downhill running ability, was a clear female winner. Well done Karen.
There is loads of route choice at Dockray, and many stories of poor lines. Indeed, the first two runners were seen racing at 90 degrees from the optimum line from the final summit. Or was it Eden Runners out for a jolly social run? I doubt it at that speed! Quite a few new young faces at the front with Kim Collinson guiding the top runners around for third place, whilst Chris Waters and Chris Newman appeared to out sprint him on the long final descent.
Seriously, well done for everyone for venturing out and taking on Dockray-Hartside; it is not an easy race and takes you into some tough highly exposed terrain. You’ll appreciate your fell racing kit next time when the greyness turns to dank wetness – a wind/waterproof jacket should be the minimum for any race or run in such terrain, regardless of race rules.
Very, seriously, well done to anyone who thought, ‘Bloody hell that was rough, but I survived!’ This is fell running. And everyone seems to appreciate our ‘£1 no frills’ entry fee.
Big thanks to Tricia, Alan and Ken and also to Sian, Judith and Larry, without whom I wouldn’t be doing this anyway. It was Larry and Judith, along with Barry and Brenda Thompson (ex-Landlord of The Royal) who instigated all the ‘Dockray Races over twenty-five years ago. Now we only have the one race, but I’d love to stage more if we had the resources to do it.
Results here soon, (hopefully!)
Joe
There was some impressive performances amongst you, especially the more ‘mature runners.’ Age is just a number, which we don’t dwell on, and having no prizes age is irrelevant, but Dave Tait from DPFR had a storming run as did Patric Gilchrist in the older age group. There was a great mix of people form all over the country; Dave from DPFR and Peter Hague from the Cairngorm Club. Local lass Karen Bridge-Heaviside did not get lost, despite her fears, impending middle-age and post-London recovery, and lack of downhill running ability, was a clear female winner. Well done Karen.
There is loads of route choice at Dockray, and many stories of poor lines. Indeed, the first two runners were seen racing at 90 degrees from the optimum line from the final summit. Or was it Eden Runners out for a jolly social run? I doubt it at that speed! Quite a few new young faces at the front with Kim Collinson guiding the top runners around for third place, whilst Chris Waters and Chris Newman appeared to out sprint him on the long final descent.
Seriously, well done for everyone for venturing out and taking on Dockray-Hartside; it is not an easy race and takes you into some tough highly exposed terrain. You’ll appreciate your fell racing kit next time when the greyness turns to dank wetness – a wind/waterproof jacket should be the minimum for any race or run in such terrain, regardless of race rules.
Very, seriously, well done to anyone who thought, ‘Bloody hell that was rough, but I survived!’ This is fell running. And everyone seems to appreciate our ‘£1 no frills’ entry fee.
Big thanks to Tricia, Alan and Ken and also to Sian, Judith and Larry, without whom I wouldn’t be doing this anyway. It was Larry and Judith, along with Barry and Brenda Thompson (ex-Landlord of The Royal) who instigated all the ‘Dockray Races over twenty-five years ago. Now we only have the one race, but I’d love to stage more if we had the resources to do it.
Results here soon, (hopefully!)
Joe
Monday, 26 April 2010
Plan-B .... The Great Heb B2B Adventure - Game On!
Well, a small part of me feels mightily relieved. Another, bigger part feels that I have been hiding a few truths from friends, for which I feel bad, but the majority of me is looking firmly ahead to The Great Heb B2B Adventure.
If you have no idea to what I am referring then you need to know that The Hebridean Challenge has been officially cancelled for 2010, but I will be hosting an informal 'Mates Race' based on the format of the original race but it will be free, fun and quite a bit flexible. This is your race if you want to get involved. I have done quite a lot of work on a 'Heb-Highlights' route and it's looking great; there is something for everyone. Primarily, it will be a journey by bike and on foot, open to anyone who wants to do any or all of it. I'm really hoping that The Heb Paddlers will get together to paddle the two kayak crossings, and maybe some more.
'Jumpers for Goal Posts' it may seem, but I'm convinced that a group of us will enjoy the adventure although we can not officially call it a race. Some of the detail is still to be decided; indeed in is a bit of a work in progress, but the basis of it is a human powered journey from Barra to The Butt of Lewis open to anyone, in any combination of team, pair or solo, and during the original race week. I will be co-ordinating a route card as well as suggesting overnight locations, etc. but all expense will be meet by yourself
Full details will emerge in due course - on my website rather than the Heb website, as for many reasons we need to keep the two things separate.
Finally, this won't be a damp squib - it has the potential to be awesome - it will be an adventure. Please come and join in if you care about The Heb, it's future and the future of AR in wild wilderness locations. Or you just what to run, ride and party.
Contact me direct - if you want to be part of The Adventure.
faulknerjoe@hotmail.com
If you have no idea to what I am referring then you need to know that The Hebridean Challenge has been officially cancelled for 2010, but I will be hosting an informal 'Mates Race' based on the format of the original race but it will be free, fun and quite a bit flexible. This is your race if you want to get involved. I have done quite a lot of work on a 'Heb-Highlights' route and it's looking great; there is something for everyone. Primarily, it will be a journey by bike and on foot, open to anyone who wants to do any or all of it. I'm really hoping that The Heb Paddlers will get together to paddle the two kayak crossings, and maybe some more.
'Jumpers for Goal Posts' it may seem, but I'm convinced that a group of us will enjoy the adventure although we can not officially call it a race. Some of the detail is still to be decided; indeed in is a bit of a work in progress, but the basis of it is a human powered journey from Barra to The Butt of Lewis open to anyone, in any combination of team, pair or solo, and during the original race week. I will be co-ordinating a route card as well as suggesting overnight locations, etc. but all expense will be meet by yourself
Full details will emerge in due course - on my website rather than the Heb website, as for many reasons we need to keep the two things separate.
Finally, this won't be a damp squib - it has the potential to be awesome - it will be an adventure. Please come and join in if you care about The Heb, it's future and the future of AR in wild wilderness locations. Or you just what to run, ride and party.
Contact me direct - if you want to be part of The Adventure.
faulknerjoe@hotmail.com
Sunday, 11 April 2010
More or Less
I've just returned from a week in The Outer Hebrides, which seems a very long time when you come back to planet Cumbria.
Our trip was primarily a recce trip for the forthcoming Hebridean Challenge, and there are some very interesting developments that I shall be revealing very shortly.
Suffice to say, that this year's Heb will be a little different and should not be missed!
More info very soon!
Our trip was primarily a recce trip for the forthcoming Hebridean Challenge, and there are some very interesting developments that I shall be revealing very shortly.
Suffice to say, that this year's Heb will be a little different and should not be missed!
More info very soon!
Wednesday, 10 March 2010
What No News - 'Less is More'
No blog updates for a while as I haven't really had much to comment upon.
It's been a weird winter here. One of the upsides of the prolonged snow and ice is that I started walking everywhere. And I've enjoyed it. I've done a few events recently, namely the South Shropshire Circular and High Peak Marathon enjoying both events tremendously. The first is a regular yearly outing conssiting of 25mile walk/run. It's a solo event but I matched up with Rick and Simon, old buddies who are usually fitter and faster than me, and was impressed that I stayed with them. (Although I think they wished I quit my AR ranting sooner) Perhaps it was the need to finish promptly and get to the pub to see England v. Ireland.
The High Peak Marathon is a team of four event run overnight around 40miles of the finest moors of Derbyshire. I was a bit apprehensive as I hadn't done it for seventeen years, and I was joining three new team-mates that I hadn't run with before. But we had a great time. Ross's route finding was very sound, Max seems very strong and steady bringing up the rear and Amanda just seemed to skip over the tough terrain. We choose good lines in the snow, and paced the whole event very well.
Both of these events are single discipline, and of long standing exsistence; 28 or 40odd years respectively. Both events are tremendously popular (my original team didn't get a place in the HPM) Why did I enjoy them so much? Another event I did was a local three hour Trail Quest around Ireby, near Bassenthwaite. For princely sum of just £7 I enjoyed trails that I hadn't raced before, and then cycled home via Skiddaw House, a classic ride through the Northern Lakekand Fells. A true adventure.
Throughout the past few months I have had a re-occurring though that 'Less is More'
Some of you may have seen my posting on www.sleepmonsters.com in response to Tom Gibb's Thread, 'What No Races' (or something similar) Tom, quite rightly gave us all a kick to examine why were are losing AR races from our calendar. My posting was very much about enjoying what we have and not needing 'new and exciting challenges' I don't belive we need such things as abseiling and ropes in AR, which is appearing to be something quite different to what I would call 'Mountain Multi-sport'.
Tom also quoted The Hebridean Challenge as one of the UK's great races, and I've been working hard to make it happen this summer. There is still a lot of planning to do and I'm looking forward to being there at Easter to flesh out the route and race logistics. Sadly, I feel our event is being overshadowed by other more 'sexy' events with marketing budgets, 'event partners' and impressive web sites and well marketed packages and add-ons. Basically we are being sold pre-packaging Adventure and it isn't coming cheap.
Sometimes Less is More...
It's been a weird winter here. One of the upsides of the prolonged snow and ice is that I started walking everywhere. And I've enjoyed it. I've done a few events recently, namely the South Shropshire Circular and High Peak Marathon enjoying both events tremendously. The first is a regular yearly outing conssiting of 25mile walk/run. It's a solo event but I matched up with Rick and Simon, old buddies who are usually fitter and faster than me, and was impressed that I stayed with them. (Although I think they wished I quit my AR ranting sooner) Perhaps it was the need to finish promptly and get to the pub to see England v. Ireland.
The High Peak Marathon is a team of four event run overnight around 40miles of the finest moors of Derbyshire. I was a bit apprehensive as I hadn't done it for seventeen years, and I was joining three new team-mates that I hadn't run with before. But we had a great time. Ross's route finding was very sound, Max seems very strong and steady bringing up the rear and Amanda just seemed to skip over the tough terrain. We choose good lines in the snow, and paced the whole event very well.
Both of these events are single discipline, and of long standing exsistence; 28 or 40odd years respectively. Both events are tremendously popular (my original team didn't get a place in the HPM) Why did I enjoy them so much? Another event I did was a local three hour Trail Quest around Ireby, near Bassenthwaite. For princely sum of just £7 I enjoyed trails that I hadn't raced before, and then cycled home via Skiddaw House, a classic ride through the Northern Lakekand Fells. A true adventure.
Throughout the past few months I have had a re-occurring though that 'Less is More'
Some of you may have seen my posting on www.sleepmonsters.com in response to Tom Gibb's Thread, 'What No Races' (or something similar) Tom, quite rightly gave us all a kick to examine why were are losing AR races from our calendar. My posting was very much about enjoying what we have and not needing 'new and exciting challenges' I don't belive we need such things as abseiling and ropes in AR, which is appearing to be something quite different to what I would call 'Mountain Multi-sport'.
Tom also quoted The Hebridean Challenge as one of the UK's great races, and I've been working hard to make it happen this summer. There is still a lot of planning to do and I'm looking forward to being there at Easter to flesh out the route and race logistics. Sadly, I feel our event is being overshadowed by other more 'sexy' events with marketing budgets, 'event partners' and impressive web sites and well marketed packages and add-ons. Basically we are being sold pre-packaging Adventure and it isn't coming cheap.
Sometimes Less is More...
Sunday, 3 January 2010
High Pike New Year Hi...
After considerable effort through iced roads and knee deep powder snow, our intrepid team of ten made it to the top of High Pike.... and then quite rightly declared that conditions were far from perfect for any more Old Crown Round peaks.
Sadly, we had to retired happily to Hudscales and The Old Crown for excellent food and drink, but we will be back.....in better conditions.
Well done team ... to those who couldn't get there, we'll try again later in the Spring.
Joe
Ps - Only just got Broadband back after a ten day 'holiday'
Sadly, we had to retired happily to Hudscales and The Old Crown for excellent food and drink, but we will be back.....in better conditions.
Well done team ... to those who couldn't get there, we'll try again later in the Spring.
Joe
Ps - Only just got Broadband back after a ten day 'holiday'
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