NAV4 One Day Workshop Saturday 10th December
I just thought I'd let you now that we have a One day course running as above. This is an 'Open' course, with just four places available to individuals upon a first come basis. The cost is just £55 and runs from 10am- 5pm here in The Lakes.
The course content will be focused on 'Intro - Intermediate' level looking at navigation in open countryside. However, with such a small group the agenda is very flexible and there will be something for everyone. It is also a great way to meet new people and share hopes and fears... and have some fun!
They are also a great opportunity for a Christmas shopping trip to The Lakes, or as a present for yourself, partner or friends. If you are interested in this please let me know.
Friday, 4 November 2011
Monday, 5 September 2011
Open Adventure C2C
Great weekend supporting AndyM on the C2C
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10150784654855503&set=t.627540690&type=1
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10150784654855503&set=t.627540690&type=1
Thursday, 25 August 2011
Four Teas and a Coffee
Or, 'So, what is Adventure Racing?' as someone asked me recently.
Well since the last post I have completed the Lakeland 100 (solo) and ridden from Berwick to Buxton along NCN Route 68 with three friends. And with two other friends (yes I have some!) I've just enjoyed a great trip to Lochaber; aka the Fort William area. Each of these three trips were steeped in adventure but I'm still identifying which bits were 'race orientated'.
Many thanks for all the congratulatory comments regarding my Lakes 100 result. A finishing time of 30hrs 30mins was OK considering the various factors such as lack of running miles in training, and a dodgy back. But, 'hey-ho' it was a case of carefully applying a little reserve and judgement and drawing upon a few other 'ultras' (they were called LDWA 100s when I started out in 1981)
Pace judgement is my key recommendation; 'jog a third, run a third and race a third...' said and old and wise marathon runner to me years ago, 'and I'll let you work out the order' .
The Lakes 100 did get hot, and many peoples' heads were visibly down, especially along the Mardale trail in the afternoon sun. I started to pass quite a few here, which is always a lift but leaves you feeling sorry for those who have 'blown up' by going off too fast.
Apparently, some 'expert' (last year's winner(sic!)) recomends goings as hard and as fast as you can, 'cos your're going to be knackered later, anyway'
Ho-hum, so all those before him (Banister, Coe, Ovett, Cudahy, Stone, Hartell, Ramsey, Bragg, Redgrave ... ) know nothing, then? But at least he can fit into his race T-shirt, assuming he has one! Oops... just a little dig there, but when you order an XL and then don't get one it annoys me, sorry!
Over-hyped is not something that is applicable to The National Cycle Network Route 68. In fact it's a beast, the perfect reposte to the C2C, and a great route through Northumberland, The Pennines, Dales, West Yorkshire and a bit of an adventure. I confess; three of us wimped out and saved an hour by using a train in order to get to The Queens Beer Festival at Tirril at an reasonable hour, which we three conclude was still a sensible decision. The three day weekend was a great adventure in that we four had never ridden together before, and had slightly differing bikes, and perhaps expectations. However, it was brillant, tough ... but fun. Realistic (shared) objectives might be the key learning...
And lastly, three days fun in Lochaber with Animal Atkinson and The Legendary Wilko. (btw - the three NCN Route 68 adventurer's are all shy modest MAMILs who wish to remain annonymous)
Four years on from ARWC we completed the Aonach Eagach Ridge in Glencoe, which was a bit scarier then I remembered. We followed this up with a brillant ride; 'Tour de Nevis' which I won't detail as it's up to you to seek it out, but it certainly takes you into some wild wilderness terrain so you'll want your mates with you to savour The Epic. Actually, it's great riding, very little pushing or carrying ... just get out there and do it. (Drop me a line if you really need help locating the route)
So, three adventures .... three contrasting trips. The only time we imploded was when I selfishly went into 'race mode' and that was in search of 'Beautiful British Beer ...' and I thought it was a team objective. Lesson learned - sorry Martin.
Joe
Well since the last post I have completed the Lakeland 100 (solo) and ridden from Berwick to Buxton along NCN Route 68 with three friends. And with two other friends (yes I have some!) I've just enjoyed a great trip to Lochaber; aka the Fort William area. Each of these three trips were steeped in adventure but I'm still identifying which bits were 'race orientated'.
Many thanks for all the congratulatory comments regarding my Lakes 100 result. A finishing time of 30hrs 30mins was OK considering the various factors such as lack of running miles in training, and a dodgy back. But, 'hey-ho' it was a case of carefully applying a little reserve and judgement and drawing upon a few other 'ultras' (they were called LDWA 100s when I started out in 1981)
Pace judgement is my key recommendation; 'jog a third, run a third and race a third...' said and old and wise marathon runner to me years ago, 'and I'll let you work out the order' .
The Lakes 100 did get hot, and many peoples' heads were visibly down, especially along the Mardale trail in the afternoon sun. I started to pass quite a few here, which is always a lift but leaves you feeling sorry for those who have 'blown up' by going off too fast.
Apparently, some 'expert' (last year's winner(sic!)) recomends goings as hard and as fast as you can, 'cos your're going to be knackered later, anyway'
Ho-hum, so all those before him (Banister, Coe, Ovett, Cudahy, Stone, Hartell, Ramsey, Bragg, Redgrave ... ) know nothing, then? But at least he can fit into his race T-shirt, assuming he has one! Oops... just a little dig there, but when you order an XL and then don't get one it annoys me, sorry!
Over-hyped is not something that is applicable to The National Cycle Network Route 68. In fact it's a beast, the perfect reposte to the C2C, and a great route through Northumberland, The Pennines, Dales, West Yorkshire and a bit of an adventure. I confess; three of us wimped out and saved an hour by using a train in order to get to The Queens Beer Festival at Tirril at an reasonable hour, which we three conclude was still a sensible decision. The three day weekend was a great adventure in that we four had never ridden together before, and had slightly differing bikes, and perhaps expectations. However, it was brillant, tough ... but fun. Realistic (shared) objectives might be the key learning...
And lastly, three days fun in Lochaber with Animal Atkinson and The Legendary Wilko. (btw - the three NCN Route 68 adventurer's are all shy modest MAMILs who wish to remain annonymous)
Four years on from ARWC we completed the Aonach Eagach Ridge in Glencoe, which was a bit scarier then I remembered. We followed this up with a brillant ride; 'Tour de Nevis' which I won't detail as it's up to you to seek it out, but it certainly takes you into some wild wilderness terrain so you'll want your mates with you to savour The Epic. Actually, it's great riding, very little pushing or carrying ... just get out there and do it. (Drop me a line if you really need help locating the route)
So, three adventures .... three contrasting trips. The only time we imploded was when I selfishly went into 'race mode' and that was in search of 'Beautiful British Beer ...' and I thought it was a team objective. Lesson learned - sorry Martin.
Joe
Thursday, 21 July 2011
NAV4 Paddle Day Two - Distant Horizons
Our second paddle day with Jason (Distant Horizons) followed neatly after our first. This time we paddled solo Sea Kayaks rather than tandems, thus allowing each of us to work on our individual skills ... as well as showing up some weaknesses and a few bad habits!
The boats we paddle are excellent Tempest 170’s from Wilderness Kayak Systems. These offer great tracking but remain agile and responsive to good handling skills. Endurance paddling is all about efficiency and not just speed, so learning to move the boats around swiftly, effectively and easily saves a lot of energy and time.
We are a mixed bunch of paddlers, some with years of experience and others just a few. Our shared experience is in adventure racing, but paddling in a non-race environment gives plenty of time to explore the richer side of paddling. Working on your weaknesses is the best way to improve overall performance.
A full day on the wider expanses of Ullswater with a mixed bag of weather gave plenty of time for skill acquisition and consolidation, ending with a ‘wet session’ of capsize, rescue and rolling. But the major focus for the day was advanced forward paddling skills, including forward steering strokes; thus eliminating much of the need for drag inducing reverse paddle steering strokes.
‘Edging’ is the key; not to be confused with leaning. Efficient edging combined with a good paddle stroke produces a very pleasing and productive ‘carved turn’. Similarly, Draw Strokes, Low Brace, Bow Rudder and Cross Bow Rudders may sound flash but they are incisive and very effective when used correctly. And, the final 'wet session' based around capsizes, T-Rescue, One-on-One Rescue, and ‘All-in-Rescues’, reminded me that it is a long time since I floundered around in the water. Hmmn, some more rolling practise is called for!
As Wilko said a few days later, ‘I soaked up more learning than you did lake water in your Helly Hansen pants ... so much made so much sense .... I’m learning loads!’
Off the water, and away from the ‘hard’ paddle skills, Jason’s experience as a skills coach is facilitating discussion on team dynamics, ideas, concerns and solutions for future racing objectives.
Our next session will focus on Open Boat skills in Canadian canoes.
Joe
The boats we paddle are excellent Tempest 170’s from Wilderness Kayak Systems. These offer great tracking but remain agile and responsive to good handling skills. Endurance paddling is all about efficiency and not just speed, so learning to move the boats around swiftly, effectively and easily saves a lot of energy and time.
We are a mixed bunch of paddlers, some with years of experience and others just a few. Our shared experience is in adventure racing, but paddling in a non-race environment gives plenty of time to explore the richer side of paddling. Working on your weaknesses is the best way to improve overall performance.
A full day on the wider expanses of Ullswater with a mixed bag of weather gave plenty of time for skill acquisition and consolidation, ending with a ‘wet session’ of capsize, rescue and rolling. But the major focus for the day was advanced forward paddling skills, including forward steering strokes; thus eliminating much of the need for drag inducing reverse paddle steering strokes.
‘Edging’ is the key; not to be confused with leaning. Efficient edging combined with a good paddle stroke produces a very pleasing and productive ‘carved turn’. Similarly, Draw Strokes, Low Brace, Bow Rudder and Cross Bow Rudders may sound flash but they are incisive and very effective when used correctly. And, the final 'wet session' based around capsizes, T-Rescue, One-on-One Rescue, and ‘All-in-Rescues’, reminded me that it is a long time since I floundered around in the water. Hmmn, some more rolling practise is called for!
As Wilko said a few days later, ‘I soaked up more learning than you did lake water in your Helly Hansen pants ... so much made so much sense .... I’m learning loads!’
Off the water, and away from the ‘hard’ paddle skills, Jason’s experience as a skills coach is facilitating discussion on team dynamics, ideas, concerns and solutions for future racing objectives.
Our next session will focus on Open Boat skills in Canadian canoes.
Joe
Wednesday, 13 July 2011
Run Saturday - Paddle Sunday
Looking forward to the weekend, it's going to be a relatively simple multi-sport Birthday event. Saturday will be the last, big, pre-Lakes100 recce training run, and Sunday a NAV4 Paddle Day on Ullswater with Distant-Horizons. Sunday is also my birthday (no, my Facebook Dob is not real) so I expect to get wet, but rewarded by cake and beer, but not necessarily actually on the water.
We had our first Paddle Day on Ullswater a month ago and Jason gave us a lot to think about, not only in terms of our paddle skills, but why we do what we do and, what are we aiming for in the future. Jason is an excellent coach and Ullswater provides a brilliant paddle venue. Paddle 'mileage' is the key, coupled with skill development; 'long term objectives require short term goals'. 'Work on your weaknesses,' is another cliche ... but oh so true, especially with Ullswater on our doorstep.
Well, future race objects for NAV4 in 2012 remain a little secretive, but suffice to say we are aiming to up our game greatly on 2010 in terms of paddling and racing generally. There are some obvious 'no-brainers' for which the team(s) need to gel. This year has been a year out of mainstream Adventure Racing, for me and team members, whilst we each of focus on individual objectives, some of which is just getting injuries well and truly fixed!
More next week, when I'll be a year old.
Joe
We had our first Paddle Day on Ullswater a month ago and Jason gave us a lot to think about, not only in terms of our paddle skills, but why we do what we do and, what are we aiming for in the future. Jason is an excellent coach and Ullswater provides a brilliant paddle venue. Paddle 'mileage' is the key, coupled with skill development; 'long term objectives require short term goals'. 'Work on your weaknesses,' is another cliche ... but oh so true, especially with Ullswater on our doorstep.
Well, future race objects for NAV4 in 2012 remain a little secretive, but suffice to say we are aiming to up our game greatly on 2010 in terms of paddling and racing generally. There are some obvious 'no-brainers' for which the team(s) need to gel. This year has been a year out of mainstream Adventure Racing, for me and team members, whilst we each of focus on individual objectives, some of which is just getting injuries well and truly fixed!
More next week, when I'll be a year old.
Joe
Thursday, 28 April 2011
Outrageous and Audacious
I haven't blogged for a very long whle simply because I've had very little to say ... other then stuff I might regret publishing.
Some Quick stuff -
Outrageous and Audacious - well that's the theme for a few things, especially Ant and Bruce's www.theepictri.com was, which they pulled out of the bag; Well Done!
It's also somewhat applicable to many other issues which have kept me busy over the past few weeks and months, the last of which is:
No Dockray Races - after thirty years .... nowt! We simple can't be bothered with the hasssle caused by some land agents when their 'administrative systems' are so out of proportion to the nature of the event.
However, we will be re-apprasing what, why and how we do things so all is not dead.
More soon, got to escape the Public Holiday fiasco NOW!
Joe
Some Quick stuff -
Outrageous and Audacious - well that's the theme for a few things, especially Ant and Bruce's www.theepictri.com was, which they pulled out of the bag; Well Done!
It's also somewhat applicable to many other issues which have kept me busy over the past few weeks and months, the last of which is:
No Dockray Races - after thirty years .... nowt! We simple can't be bothered with the hasssle caused by some land agents when their 'administrative systems' are so out of proportion to the nature of the event.
However, we will be re-apprasing what, why and how we do things so all is not dead.
More soon, got to escape the Public Holiday fiasco NOW!
Joe
Monday, 21 March 2011
No More NAV4 Events ...until Winter 2011
Due to unforeseen circumstances the Tour de Kentmere and the Nav4/12 has been cancelled. Please contact me via email if you need further info.
Wednesday, 2 February 2011
Strathpuffer 24
When your star rider comes off the first lap shaking his head and saying conditions are treacherous then you know you in for a tough time! Without a word and no hesitation Wilko went out for the second lap leaving me to ponder just how bad it was.
Studded ice tyres were in demand as hard thick ice was covering much of the trail, and so staying upright was a challenge. Fortunately, the weather would proved to be kind and so underfoot, (and underwheel) conditions were to change steadily.
None of us had really done a 24hr enduro before (I'd been part of a five person team but only Spring) and riding as a team of three, and not four, was always going to be tough. The upside is less waiting around between laps, and with a rough model of one lap on, two laps off, were should be able to grab some sleep in the small hours and keep on the course.
With Solos, Pairs and Quads all racing the same route, it's not uncommon to be passing others or in my case being passed by many! Any 24hr race, or longer is all about staying the game, staying on track, in more ways than one. The longer it goes on the more important it is to stay focused and motivated, but pacing it for 24 hours is crucial. Adopting a Tortoise and Hare mentality is good policy, letting the hares go and maybe crash and burn. As Pete said, 'I get the idea that Wilko won't give in or slow down at all'.
The state of the trail always changes and Strathpuffer was no exception. Overnight a steady thaw came through so the icy trail improved with big muddy parts developing and the mud smears helping erode the hard pack ice. In the space of 24 hours and seven laps each (eight for Pete) you get a chance to learn the course, and each lap can appear very different. Parts you haven't ridden before get 'cleaned' and you learn when to run instead of ride. Certainly, my last lap just as dawn was breaking was as enjoyable as any, and I saw bits of scenery I hadn't seen before.
Strathpuffer offers it's devotees 17+hours of darkness. Light output and battery power are crucial items of gear, but good food and drink are equally important as it good bike maintenance. Grab some power snoozes and stay on course. Yes, in some ways it's a drag but there are memorable bits, not least watching Pete fly around the end of the last lap, clocking up our 22nd lap in a little over 24hours riding as smooth as ever.
There were some amazing performances and results, not least from some Solos and Pairs, showing true skill and endurance. I must improve my riding for next year.
A big vote of thanks to Pete and Wilko for their company, contribution and commitment. Strathpuffer is one of those 'must do' events. We learned a lot about the event, tactics, and that Three's not a crowd; but do we ride as Pair, Quad or even Solo in 2012?
Anyone want to come join the team? Strathpuffer is well worth the journey north.
Joe
Studded ice tyres were in demand as hard thick ice was covering much of the trail, and so staying upright was a challenge. Fortunately, the weather would proved to be kind and so underfoot, (and underwheel) conditions were to change steadily.
None of us had really done a 24hr enduro before (I'd been part of a five person team but only Spring) and riding as a team of three, and not four, was always going to be tough. The upside is less waiting around between laps, and with a rough model of one lap on, two laps off, were should be able to grab some sleep in the small hours and keep on the course.
With Solos, Pairs and Quads all racing the same route, it's not uncommon to be passing others or in my case being passed by many! Any 24hr race, or longer is all about staying the game, staying on track, in more ways than one. The longer it goes on the more important it is to stay focused and motivated, but pacing it for 24 hours is crucial. Adopting a Tortoise and Hare mentality is good policy, letting the hares go and maybe crash and burn. As Pete said, 'I get the idea that Wilko won't give in or slow down at all'.
The state of the trail always changes and Strathpuffer was no exception. Overnight a steady thaw came through so the icy trail improved with big muddy parts developing and the mud smears helping erode the hard pack ice. In the space of 24 hours and seven laps each (eight for Pete) you get a chance to learn the course, and each lap can appear very different. Parts you haven't ridden before get 'cleaned' and you learn when to run instead of ride. Certainly, my last lap just as dawn was breaking was as enjoyable as any, and I saw bits of scenery I hadn't seen before.
Strathpuffer offers it's devotees 17+hours of darkness. Light output and battery power are crucial items of gear, but good food and drink are equally important as it good bike maintenance. Grab some power snoozes and stay on course. Yes, in some ways it's a drag but there are memorable bits, not least watching Pete fly around the end of the last lap, clocking up our 22nd lap in a little over 24hours riding as smooth as ever.
There were some amazing performances and results, not least from some Solos and Pairs, showing true skill and endurance. I must improve my riding for next year.
A big vote of thanks to Pete and Wilko for their company, contribution and commitment. Strathpuffer is one of those 'must do' events. We learned a lot about the event, tactics, and that Three's not a crowd; but do we ride as Pair, Quad or even Solo in 2012?
Anyone want to come join the team? Strathpuffer is well worth the journey north.
Joe
Thursday, 30 December 2010
OCR / Hudscales Update
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
I'm keen on a short MTB ride Friday afternoon or evening, may be a loop to the pub ....?
Joe
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.
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