Training Log Archive: Big Jon

Loch Ullachie, lots of reeds but deeper in middle (interestingly the old OS map shows it as much smaller than now - possibly an attempt to drain it has been made and then abandoned). Beautiful setting in mature pine plantation and a glimpse of the open hill to the west. Got a bit chilly after approx 20 mins but kept going to make the half hour. Chilled after but a 20 minute drive to pick up S and E from their run gave me a chance to warm up a bit.
Strangely tired after - perhaps swimming is more intensive exercise than it feels.

C • or 3

Deeside Way, past DAP, met another cyclist, hesitated then thought "no, too far from Aberdeen" a few seconds later Sasha caught me up, for it was he. Had a short cycle together then he headed off to Aboyne for food and I to meet S and E for a wander up to the quarry pond for a dip. Pushed all uphills.

Quarry pond. Lovely setting and want sun, loads of flying ants drowning in the pond - perhaps food for the huge tadpoles swimming around in great profusion.

Started with E & S through woods and fields to old military road then E turned back to play on rougher stuff and S and I carried on towards Lumphanan and back via Activity Park - I went on to Kinker and back up Deeside Way. Very pleasant, may need to get the road bike out as physic said cycling is fine but to come back to running slowly and cautiously.

Hamstring not badly damaged but caution suggested due to time it can take to recover from this at my age (sob...). Cycling and swimming here I come.

Wee dip in Loch Kinord with S. Right ham not too bad at all swimming - maybe the way forward.

Right ham aching when sitting, sensitive when walking and very sore when bending. Physio appointment booked for tomorrow.

Hills on west edge of Birsemore with E. Planned to do 10 but left hamstring went pop during 5th. Bugger.

From near Boat Inn to Fungle track then off to Birsemore side. Hobble back down while E continued with session.

Feeling bit wappit. A few hours moving equipment and scrubbing tables.

Last day, Glad its over and even gladder that the weather stayed (mostly) kind, everything (mostly) went well and most people seemed to enjoy the week in Deeside Forests.
Thanks for the huge effort from all Scottish orienteers (and helpers from further afield), especially the COT and even more so the the equipment team (there first and away last every day).