Training Log Archive: tomtom

Roaches Fell Race - 2nd!!

This was my best race yet. Knew the distance would suit me but didn't know how hard to set off. Saw a few good guys on the start line (Jack Ross, Pete Vale) and thought they would be up at the front, so I hoped to hang on to follow them - I only knew the short bit I recce'ed yesterday and vaguely a couple of other sections.

Set off just behind the leading group of 7 and pleased Birtwhistle was with me, hoping he would keep me company for the race. However when we hit the road I was somehow leading with a guy called Sebastian and had got a 10 sec gap already. I asked him if he knew they way and he said no. Oh well, let's risk it. So we carried on pushing and had a few hesitations at junctions when we couldn't see any tapes or arrows, but luckily nothing too disastrous. Seb was obviously just cruising along at my pace, not wanting to go ahead. The long technical descent through the woods towards Gradbach and the ice cold river crossing was great fun, and I got 30secs on him, which he caught up the next hill. Once we crossed the main road I had to get the map out to guide us across several fields with very unclear race markings and footpath signs. Took it steady up Shutlingsloe trying to conserve energy. Nice to see Mum and then Dad on the top. Turned and head home, feeling gradually more tired and Seb pulled away (he knew the way now). The long climb back up to the Roaches was tough and I had to walk a bit. I could see Jack Ross about 1 min back so had definitely gained on me so I was a bit stressed. But finally got to the top and flew over the rocky terrain like a mountain goat and nailed it back over the muddy fields to take 2nd. Delighted!

Seb gained 6 minutes on me from about 10km from the end. I'm sure he could of gone sub 2 if he didn't jog the first half.

C • Nice one 3

Could barely walk after the race due to a seized calf muscle which was a bit worrying. But luckily it eased off during the evening.

Short recce of tomorow's race. Had a very poorly printed map so was challenging. And was an absolute mud bath.

28km +290m

With Mike

Steady hilly run squeezed in between finishing work and time I was supposed to be meeting friends. But this was worth being late.

With Tom B, did 6x 400m (+40m hills) on the Teggs Nose field with 2 min jog down recovery. Took it upper threshold, feeling good.

Feeling very springy. It's amazing what a Trek bar can do for a tired and hungry body.